Explore Career Clusters

Career Cluster
Pathways

Career Cluster : Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources


This Career Cluster focused on the production, processing, marketing, distribution, financing, and development of agricultural commodities and resources including food, fiber, wood products, natural resources, horticulture, and other plant and animal products/resources.

Workforce Region(s): All States Combined

*** = Insufficient Data

Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources Pathways

Pathway Description: Agribusiness is the coordination of all activities that contribute to the production, processing, marketing, distribution, financing and development of agricultural commodities and resources. This includes food, fiber, wood products, natural resources, horticulture, and other plant and animal products and services. Agribusiness is a high-tech industry that uses satellite systems, computer databases and spreadsheets, biotechnology and many other innovations to increase efficiency and profitability.

Secondary CTE Courses

Introduction to Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources: This is a core course for the Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Career Cluster that builds a knowledge base and technical skills in all aspects of the industry. Learners will be exposed to a broad range of agriculture, food and natural resources careers and Cluster Foundation Knowledge and Skills. This may be taught as a career exploration course in conjunction with other foundation Career Cluster courses.

Introduction to Agricultural Marketing, Business and Entrepreneurship: This course covers skills necessary for furthering education or entry into employment in an agricultural business. The course includes the study of business organizations including business plans, business structures, job responsibilities, job applications and interviewing, human relations, marketing, selling, displaying, and using business technology, management and entrepreneurship skills.

Accounting: This course includes knowledge and skills necessary for success in modern accounting environments. The content includes generally accepted accounting procedures, production and interpretation of financial statements, maintenance of payroll, maintenance of accounts payable and receivable, billing, data entry and maintenance of accounting files.

Agricultural Business Management: This course builds on the knowledge and skills covered in the Introduction to Ag Marketing, Business and Entrepreneurship. Content includes development and management of a business plan to guide business activities, agribusiness leadership and management in the free enterprise system, economic principles, budgeting, finance, risk management, business law, marketing, human resources and careers in agribusiness.

Agricultural Economics: This course is designed to develop skills and knowledge directly related to sales and service, marketing, commodity exchange, supply and demand, and world trade. This course also includes fundamentals of business, economic principles, record keeping, risk management, taxes, legal issues and marketing strategies.

Internship in Agribusiness: This course is designed for work-site learning experiences. Students have the opportunity to practice specific skills, including record keeping, and receive credit for time spent in the workplace.Other Courses and Elective Activities: Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) and participation in appropriate FFA activities.

Pathway Description: People who work in the Animal Systems pathway work to develop better, more efficient ways of producing and processing meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products. They study genetics, nutrition, reproduction, growth and development of domesticated farm animals. Some individuals inspect and grade livestock food products, purchase livestock or work in technical sales or marketing. Others advise agricultural producers on how to upgrade animal housing facilities properly, lower mortality rates, handle waste matter or increase production of animal products, such as milk or eggs. Animal care workers train, feed, water, groom, bathe and exercise animals. They also clean, disinfect and repair their cages.

Secondary CTE Courses

Introduction to Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources: This is a core course for the Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Career Cluster that builds a knowledge base and technical skills in all aspects of the industry. Learners will be exposed to a broad range of agriculture, food and natural resources careers and Cluster Foundation Knowledge and Skills. This may be taught as a career exploration course in conjunction with other foundation Career Cluster courses.

Introduction to Animal Science: This course focuses on the basic scientific principles and processes that are involved in animal physiology, breeding and genetics, nutrition, and care and welfare in preparation for an animal systems career major. Topics include animal diseases, introduction to animal science, animal nutrition, animal science issues, career opportunities and animal evaluation.

Advanced Animal Science: This course includes advanced scientific principles and communication skills that build on the knowledge and skills learned in Introduction to Animal Science. Topics include animal waste management, animal science economics, animal health and nutrition, decision making and global concerns in the industry including marketing, genetics and breeding. Work-based learning strategies are used to reinforce content, including but not limited to internships, agriscience projects, apprenticeships and supervised agricultural experience.

Specialization: Small Animals: This course provides instruction on animal husbandry topics related to small animals that are served by a veterinarian. This course includes breeding, grooming, training, care and marketing of animals that fit into this category with opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience through work-based learning and leadership experiences.

Specialization: Equine Science: This course focuses on the basic scientific principles and processes related to equine physiology, breeding, nutrition, training and care in preparation for a career in the equine industry. Students will gain hands-on experience through work-based learning and leadership experiences.

Specialization: Biotechnology and Agricultural Science Research: This course provides instruction in the technologically advanced world of agricultural systems and life sciences, with exposure to the latest techniques and advances in biotechnology with a strong emphasis on hands-on and work-based activities.

Other Courses and Elective Activities: Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) and participation in appropriate FFA activities.

Pathway Description: People who work in the Environmental Service Systems pathway are involved in water and air pollution control, recycling, waste disposal and public health issues. Environmental engineers and technicians conduct hazardous-waste management studies, evaluate the significance of the hazard, offer analysis on treatment and containment, and develop regulations to prevent mishaps. They design municipal sewage and industrial wastewater systems. They analyze scientific data, research environmental projects and perform quality control checks.

Secondary CTE Courses

Introduction to Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources: This is a core course for the Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Career Cluster that builds a knowledge base and technical skills in all aspects of the industry. Learners will be exposed to a broad range of agriculture, food and natural resources careers and Cluster Foundation Knowledge and Skills. This may be taught as a career exploration course in conjunction with other foundation Career Cluster courses.

Introduction to Environmental Service Systems: This course provides an introduction to environmental studies including renewable and non-renewable natural resources, history of the environment, personal development, water and air quality and relevant regulations, waste management, land use regulations, soils and meteorology. Students will study effective management practices, methods of environmental monitoring and conservation, sampling methodologies and conservation techniques.

Power Systems: This course builds on the principles of the previous course and provides more in-depth knowledge and skills as they relate to energy sources, lubricants, service and maintenance of machinery and equipment, and equipment operation. Students will apply principles of service and repair by troubleshooting problems and evaluating engine performance as well as follow guidelines to service and repair power transmission systems, hydraulic systems, electrical systems, heating and air conditioning systems, steering, suspension, traction and vehicle performance systems. Tools used with these procedures will allow students to demonstrate proper skill and safety.

Research in Natural Resources and Biotechnology: This course provides instruction in the technologically advanced world of natural resources and environmental sciences. Students are introduced to the latest techniques and advances in natural resources systems, methods of environmental monitoring and conservation, air and water regulations, sampling methodologies, and prescribing conservation with a strong emphasis on hands-on activities and research experiments in biotechnology.

Internship in Environmental Service Systems: This course provides work-site learning experiences in a career related to environmental service systems. Students have the opportunity to practice specific skills, including record keeping, and receive credit for time spent in the workplace.

Other Courses and Elective Activities: Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) and participation in appropriate FFA activities.

Pathway Description: People who work in the Food Products and Processing Systems pathway discover new food sources, analyze food content and develop ways to process, preserve, package or store food according to industry and government regulations. They create new food products to meet consumer needs and inspect food-processing areas to ensure that sanitation, safety, quality and waste management standards are met.

Secondary CTE Courses

Introduction to Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources: This is a core course for the Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Career Cluster that builds a knowledge base and technical skills in all aspects of the industry. Learners will be exposed to a broad range of agriculture, food and natural resources careers and Cluster Foundation Knowledge and Skills. This may be taught as a career exploration course in conjunction with other foundation Career Cluster courses.

Introduction to Food Products and Processing Systems: This course introduces students to the principles, applications and science of food and food processing and production. Students will learn the scientific principles and practice scientific and practical consumer applications involved in the food industry including food science, food processing, microbiology, toxicology, regulations concerning the safety and protection of the food supply and organic production of food and nutrition.

Advanced Food Products and Processing Systems: Students will apply food science principles to enhance product development with particular emphasis on USDA/FDA standards, nutritional analysis and evaluation of food groups. Students will analyze product preparation options to prepare products for distribution and utilize preservation methods to develop food preservation programs. Work-based learning strategies are used to reinforce content, including but not limited to internships, agriscience projects, apprenticeships and supervised agricultural experience.

Agricultural Economics: This is a course designed to develop skills and knowledge directly related to sales and service, marketing, commodity exchange, supply and demand, and world trade. This course also includes fundamentals of business, economic principles, record keeping, risk management, taxes, legal issues and marketing strategies.

Internship in Food Products and Food Processing Systems: This course is designed for work-site learning experiences that emphasize safety and health in the workplace. Students have the opportunity to practice specific skills, including record keeping, and receive credit for time spent in the workplace.

Other Courses and Elective Activities: Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) and participation in appropriate FFA activities.

Pathway Description: People who work in the Natural Resources Systems pathway perform a variety of tasks from helping to develop, maintain, and manage the forest and natural environment to catching and trapping various types of marine life for human consumption, animal feed, bait and other uses. Forest and rangelands supply wood products, livestock forage, minerals and water; serve as sites for recreational activities; and provide habitats for wildlife. Conservation scientists and foresters manage, develop, use and help protect these and other natural resources.

Secondary CTE Courses

Introduction to Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources: This is a core course for the Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Career Cluster that builds a knowledge base and technical skills in all aspects of the industry. Learners will be exposed to a broad range of agriculture, food and natural resources careers and Cluster Foundation Knowledge and Skills. This may be taught as a career exploration course in conjunction with other foundation Career Cluster courses.

Introduction to Natural Resources and the Environment: This course provides an opportunity for students to increase awareness of the close ties among living organisms as well as natural and environmental concerns with the interrelationships of living organisms and the world around us. Students are exposed to careers related to natural resources systems.

Advanced Natural Resources and Environmental Systems: Content of this course includes the use of renewable and non-renewable natural resources, including water and air quality, waste management, land use regulations, soils, meteorology, fisheries, forestry and wildlife habitat. Students will identify issues and potential solutions of resource management.

Research in Natural Resources and Biotechnology: This course provides instruction in the management activities of natural resources and environmental sciences. Students are exposed to the latest techniques and advances in natural resources systems, methods of environmental monitoring and conservation, natural resource related regulations, resource protection, sampling methodologies, prescribing management techniques in wildlife, range and forestry management with a strong emphasis on hands-on activities, and research experiments in biotechnology.

Internship in Natural Resources: This course is designed for work-site learning experiences in a career related to natural resources. Students have the opportunity to practice specific skills, including record keeping, and receive credit for time spent in the workplace.

Other Courses and Elective Activities: Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) and participation in appropriate FFA activities.

Pathway Description: People who work in the Plant Systems pathway study plants and their growth. This helps producers of food, feed and fiber crops continue to feed a growing population while conserving natural resources and maintaining the environment. Individuals in this pathway also develop ways to improve the nutritional value of crops and the quality of seeds. They use genetic engineering to develop crops resistant to pests and drought.

Secondary CTE Courses

Introduction to Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources: This is a core course for the Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Career Cluster that builds a knowledge base and technical skills in all aspects of the industry. Learners will be exposed to a broad range of agriculture, food and natural resources careers and Cluster Foundation Knowledge and Skills. This may be taught as a career exploration course in conjunction with other foundation Career Cluster courses.

Introduction to Plant and Soil Science: This course focuses on knowledge, information and skills related to the science of plant production and agronomy. The curriculum is carried out through lecture, application and experience to provide the necessary basic skills for careers in horticulture, agricultural production and management, and science. The content includes plant growth and reproduction, biotechnology and research, fertilizers, plant and tree identification, controlling weeds and pests, and safe and proper use of agricultural chemicals.

Advanced Plant and Soil Science focusing on agronomy, forestry and range science or horticulture: Focusing on agronomy, forestry and range science or horticulture, this course includes advanced scientific principles and communication skills that build on knowledge and skills learned in Introduction to Plant Systems. Topics include plant science economics, decision making, global concerns in the industry including marketing, genetics modification, and breeding. Work-based learning strategies are used to reinforce content, including but not limited to internships, agriscience projects, apprenticeships and supervised agriculture experiences.

Biotechnology and Agricultural Science Research: This course provides instruction in the technologically advanced world of agricultural systems and life sciences, with exposure to the latest techniques and advances in biotechnology with a strong emphasis on hands-on and work-based activities.

Specialization: Agronomy: This course focuses on various physical and biological factors including soil management, tillage, crop rotation, breeding, weed control and climate related to crop production.

Specialization: Forestry and Range Science: This course focuses on the broad field of forest and range plants, with a basic orientation to native plants and ecosystems. Instructional units include plant identification, forest and range ecology, planting, and pests and diseases.

Specialization: Horticulture: Focusing on areas of specialization such as greenhouse management, turf management, nursery operations, floriculture and landscaping, this course emphasizes the scientific and technical knowledge for a career in horticulture. Topics in this course include plant growth and development, genetics, plant nutrition, media selection, basic plant identification, pest management, chemical disposal, customer relations, career opportunities and leadership development.

Other Courses and Elective Activities: Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) and participation in appropriate FFA activities.

Pathway Description: People who work in the Power, Structural and Technical Systems pathway apply knowledge of engineering, hydraulics, pneumatics, electronics, power, structures, and controls to the field of agriculture. They design agricultural structures as well as machinery and equipment. They develop ways to conserve soil and water and to improve the processing of agricultural products.

Secondary CTE Courses

Introduction to Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources: This is a core course for the Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Career Cluster that builds a knowledge base and technical skills in all aspects of the industry. Learners will be exposed to a broad range of agriculture, food and natural resources careers and Cluster Foundation Knowledge and Skills. This may be taught as a career exploration course in conjunction with other foundation Career Cluster courses.

Introduction to Power, Structural and Technical Systems: This course introduces the knowledge and skills for applying the physical science principles and principles of operation and maintenance to mechanical equipment, welding and fabrication, structures, biological systems, land treatment, power utilization, and technology including computer applications of surveying and mapping.

Structural Systems: Students will use computer skills to develop simple sketches and plans, read and relate structural plans to specifications and building codes, estimate project costs, use construction/fabrication equipment and tools, and plan and design machinery, equipment, buildings and facilities.

Power Systems: This course builds on the principles of the previous course and provides more in-depth knowledge and skills as they relate to energy sources, lubricants, service and maintenance of machinery and equipment, and equipment operation. Students will apply principles of service and repair by troubleshooting problems and evaluating engine performance, follow guidelines to service and repair power transmission systems, hydraulic systems, electrical systems, heating and air conditioning systems, steering, suspension, traction and vehicle performance systems. Tools used with these procedures will allow students to demonstrate proper skills and safety.

Internship in Power, Structural and Technical Systems: This course is designed for work-site learning experiences. Students have the opportunity to practice specific skills, including record keeping, and receive credit for time spent in the workplace.

Other Courses and Elective Activities: Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) and participation in appropriate FFA activities.


The Perkins crosswalk of educational programs of study to occupations identifies a number of programs relevant to this career cluster:

01.0000 Agriculture, General.
01.0101 Agricultural Business and Management, General.
01.0102 Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations.
01.0104 Farm/Farm and Ranch Management.
01.0105 Agricultural/Farm Supplies Retailing and Wholesaling.
01.0106 Agricultural Business Technology.
01.0199 Agricultural Business and Management, Other.
01.0201 Agricultural Mechanization, General.
01.0204 Agricultural Power Machinery Operation.
01.0205 Agricultural Mechanics and Equipment/Machine Technology.
01.0299 Agricultural Mechanization, Other.
01.0301 Agricultural Production Operations, General.
01.0302 Animal/Livestock Husbandry and Production.
01.0303 Aquaculture.
01.0304 Crop Production.
01.0306 Dairy Husbandry and Production.
01.0307 Horse Husbandry/Equine Science and Management.
01.0308 Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture.
01.0309 Viticulture and Enology.
01.0399 Agricultural Production Operations, Other.
01.0401 Agricultural and Food Products Processing.
01.0504 Dog/Pet/Animal Grooming.
01.0505 Animal Training.
01.0507 Equestrian/Equine Studies.
01.0508 Taxidermy/Taxidermist.
01.0599 Agricultural and Domestic Animal Services, Other.
01.0601 Applied Horticulture/Horticulture Operations, General.
01.0603 Ornamental Horticulture.
01.0604 Greenhouse Operations and Management.
01.0605 Landscaping and Groundskeeping.
01.0606 Plant Nursery Operations and Management.
01.0607 Turf and Turfgrass Management.
01.0608 Floriculture/Floristry Operations and Management.
01.0699 Applied Horticulture/Horticultural Business Services, Other.
01.0701 International Agriculture.
01.0801 Agricultural and Extension Education Services.
01.0899 Agricultural Public Services, Other.
01.0901 Animal Sciences, General.
01.0902 Agricultural Animal Breeding.
01.0903 Animal Health.
01.0904 Animal Nutrition.
01.0905 Dairy Science.
01.0906 Livestock Management.
01.0907 Poultry Science.
01.0999 Animal Sciences, Other.
01.1001 Food Science.
01.1002 Food Technology and Processing.
01.1099 Food Science and Technology, Other.
01.1101 Plant Sciences, General.
01.1102 Agronomy and Crop Science.
01.1103 Horticultural Science.
01.1104 Agricultural and Horticultural Plant Breeding.
01.1105 Plant Protection and Integrated Pest Management.
01.1106 Range Science and Management.
01.1199 Plant Sciences, Other.
01.1201 Soil Science and Agronomy, General.
01.1202 Soil Chemistry and Physics.
01.1203 Soil Microbiology.
01.1299 Soil Sciences, Other.
01.9999 Agriculture, Agriculture Operations, and Related Sciences, Other.
03.0101 Natural Resources/Conservation, General.
03.0103 Environmental Studies.
03.0104 Environmental Science.
03.0201 Natural Resources Management and Policy.
03.0205 Water, Wetlands, and Marine Resources Management.
03.0206 Land Use Planning and Management/Development.
03.0207 Natural Resource Recreation and Tourism.
03.0208 Natural Resources Law Enforcement and Protective Services.
03.0299 Natural Resources Management and Policy, Other.
03.0301 Fishing and Fisheries Sciences and Management.
03.0501 Forestry, General.
03.0502 Forest Sciences and Biology.
03.0506 Forest Management/Forest Resources Management.
03.0508 Urban Forestry.
03.0509 Wood Science and Wood Products/Pulp and Paper Technology.
03.0510 Forest Resources Production and Management.
03.0511 Forest Technology/Technician.
03.0599 Forestry, Other.
03.0601 Wildlife, Fish and Wildlands Science and Management.
03.9999 Natural Resources and Conservation, Other.
12.0509 Culinary Science/Culinology.
15.0506 Water Quality and Wastewater Treatment Management and Recycling Technology/Technician.
15.0507 Environmental Engineering Technology/Environmental Technology.
15.0508 Hazardous Materials Management and Waste Technology/Technician.
15.0599 Environmental Control Technologies/Technicians, Other.
15.0901 Mining Technology/Technician.
15.0903 Petroleum Technology/Technician.
15.0999 Mining and Petroleum Technologies/Technicians, Other.
31.0302 Golf Course Operation and Grounds Management.
49.0303 Commercial Fishing.
03.0199 Natural Resources Conservation and Research, Other

Copyright © 2023 Pathway2Careers. All Rights Reserved.