Career Pathways

AgCentric gives students a pathway to successful careers in agriculture, food and natural resources.

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Agribusiness Systems

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Pathway Description

Coordinate activities that contribute to the production, processing and distribution of agricultural commodities and resources, promote agricultural products, and help finance agricultural businesses.

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Natural Resources Systems

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Pathway Description

Protect natural resources, develop, maintain and manage forests and rangelands, catch and trap marine life, work at recreational sites, provide habitats for wildlife.

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Power, Structural, and Technical Systems

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Pathway Description

Apply engineering principles to farm systems: design equipment, structures, and controls; use hydraulics, pneumatics, and electronics; conserve soil and water; and enhance product processing.

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Biotechnology

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Pathway Description

Make use of a range of tools, including breeding techniques, to make or modify products or organisms, improve plants or animals, or develop microorganisms for specific agricultural uses.

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Environmental Systems

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Pathway Description

Oversee recycling, pollution control, and waste disposal; develop regulations; and research environmental projects to protect public health.

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Food Products and Processing Systems

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Pathway Description

Discover new food sources, analyze food content, develop ways to process, preserve, package or store food, create new food products, inspect food processing areas.

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Plant Systems

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Pathway Description

Study plants and their growth, use genetic engineering to improve crops, develop ways to improve seeds, and protect natural environments.

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Animal Systems

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Pathway Description

Improve production and processing of animal products; study livestock biology; inspect and grade food; buy livestock; and work in sales or marketing.

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Agribusiness Systems

flip card icon

Pathway Description

Coordinate activities that contribute to the production, processing and distribution of agricultural commodities and resources, promote agricultural products, and help finance agricultural businesses.

Explore

Natural Resources Systems

flip card icon

Pathway Description

Protect natural resources, develop, maintain and manage forests and rangelands, catch and trap marine life, work at recreational sites, provide habitats for wildlife.

Explore

Power, Structural, and Technical Systems

flip card icon

Pathway Description

Apply engineering principles to farm systems: design equipment, structures, and controls; use hydraulics, pneumatics, and electronics; conserve soil and water; and enhance product processing.

Explore

Biotechnology

flip card icon

Pathway Description

Make use of a range of tools, including breeding techniques, to make or modify products or organisms, improve plants or animals, or develop microorganisms for specific agricultural uses.

Explore

Environmental Systems

flip card icon

Pathway Description

Oversee recycling, pollution control, and waste disposal; develop regulations; and research environmental projects to protect public health.

Explore

Food Products and Processing Systems

flip card icon

Pathway Description

Discover new food sources, analyze food content, develop ways to process, preserve, package or store food, create new food products, inspect food processing areas.

Explore

Plant Systems

flip card icon

Pathway Description

Study plants and their growth, use genetic engineering to improve crops, develop ways to improve seeds, and protect natural environments.

Explore

Animal Systems

flip card icon

Pathway Description

Improve production and processing of animal products; study livestock biology; inspect and grade food; buy livestock; and work in sales or marketing.

Explore

Agribusiness Systems

Agri-business Degree - Ridgewater College Agribusiness Degree - Minnesota West Community and Technical College Agribusiness Degree - Riverland Community College Agricultural Science - Riverland Community College Agribusiness Agronomy Certificate - South Central College Agribusiness Office Specialist - South Central College Agribusiness - South Central College Agribusiness Chemical Applicator Technician - South Central College Agribusiness Management B.S. - Southwest Minnesota State University Agriculture B.A.S - Southwest Minnesota State University Agriculture Education B.S. - Southwest Minnesota State University Sustainable Agricultural Solutions B.S. - Southwest Minnesota State University Precision Agriculture A.A.S. - Ridgewater College Agricultural Science A.S. - Central Lakes College Agriculture A.S. - Minnesota West Community and Technical College Agriculture Education A.S. - Northland Community and Technical College Agriculture Education Technology A.S. - South Central College Agriculture & Veterinary Technology A.S. - Ridgewater College Agriculture Business Management and Marketing A.A.S. - Minnesota West Community and Technical College Agriculture Production A.A.S. - Minnesota West Community and Technical College Agriculture Production Management A.S. - Minnesota West Community and Technical College UAS & Geospatial Applications Certificate - Northland Agricultural Science Concentration A.A. - Riverland Community College Precision Agriculture Certificate - Riverland Community College Farm Operation and Mangement Diploma- Ridgewater College Agribusiness and Food innovation B.S. - Minnesota State University, Mankato

Natural Resources Systems

Natural Resources A.A.S. - Central Lakes College Natural Resources Conservation Officer A.A.S. - Central Lakes College Natural Resources Forest Resources A.A.S. - MN North - Itasca Natural Resources Law Enforcement A.A.S. - MN North - Itasca Natural Resources Geospatial A.A.S. - MN North - Itasca Natural Resources Wildland Firefighting Diploma, A.A.S. - MN North - Itasca Land Surveying A.S. - MN North - Vermilion Fisheries and Wildlife A.S. - MN North - Vermilion Natural Resources Technology A.A.S. - MN North - Vermilion Wildlife Ecology Certificate - MN North - Vermillion Water Quality Science A.A.S. - MN North - Vermillion Watershed Science A.S. - MN North - Vermillion Water Environment Technology A.A.S., Diploma - St. Cloud Technical & Community College Wilderness & Park Management A.A.S. - MN North - Vermillion Wildland Firefighting Certificate - Lake Superior Wilderness Management B.A.S. - Bemidji State University Wildlife Biology B.S. - Bemidji State University Ecology B.S. - Minnesota State University, Mankato Ecology & Evolutionary Biology B.S. - Minnesota State University, Moorhead Sustainability B.S. - Minnesota State University, Moorhead Environmental Science A.S. - Rochester Community & Technical College Wildlife Tourism Certificate - Central Lakes College Urban Forestry Technician A.A.S. - Hennepin Technical College Backcountry Guide Certificate - MN North- Vermillion Outdoor Leadership A.A.S., A.S., Certificate - MN North- Vermillion Outdoor Recreation Therapy A.S. - MN North- Vermillion Biology Transfer Pathway - Minnesota State Community & Technical College Agricultural Science A.S. - Central Lakes College

Power, Structural, and Technical Systems

Ag Power & Equipment Technician Diploma - Ridgewater College Agribusiness Service Technician Diploma - South Central College Robotics/Automated Systems Technology A.A.S, Diploma - Central Lakes College Automated Robotics Engineering Technology A.A.S. - Hennepin Technical College Mechatronics A.A.S. - Minnesota West Community and Technical College Heavy Equipment Operations and Maintenance - Central Lakes College Welding Technology - Alexandria Technical & Community College Welding & Fabrication A.A.S., Diploma - Central Lakes College Welding and Metal Fabrication Certificate - Hennepin Technical College Welding Technology Diploma - Minnesota State College Southeast Welding Certificate, Diploma - Minnesota West Community and Technical College Robotics & Industrial Controls A.A.S. - St. Cloud Technical & Community College Welding A.A.S., Diploma, Certificate - Ridgewater College Welding Technology - Rochester Technical and Community College Welding Diploma - South Central College Welding Technology Diploma - Pine Technical & Community College Welding/Fabrication Diploma - St. Cloud Technical & Community College Welding Diploma, Certificate - St. Paul College Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology - Central Lakes College Diesel Mechanics Diploma, A.A.S. - Alexandria Technical & Community College Diesel Mechanics & Heavy Equipment A.A.S.- Hibbing Community College Mechatronics A.A.S. - Northland Community & Technical College Diesel Technician A.A.S., Diploma - Minnesota West Community and Technical College Diesel Equipment Technology - Minnesota State Community and Technical College Medium/Heavy Truck Technician Diploma, A.A.S. - St. Cloud Technical & Community College Gunsmithing & Firearms Technology Diploma - Pine Technical & Community College Automated Systems Technology Diploma - Pine Technical & Community College Precision Agriculture Certificate - Riverland Community College Precisions Agriculture A.A.S. - Ridgewater College Precision Farming Certificate - Ridgewater College Precision Agriculture Application Technician Certificate - Minnesota West Community & Technical College Mechatronics A.A.S. - Minnesota State College Southeast

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Agribusiness Systems

What You'll Do

Behind every farm and food product is a network of professionals managing the business side of agriculture. The Agribusiness Systems pathway is where agriculture meets finance, marketing, technology, and management. Individuals in this pathway keep the ag industry running by making decisions that affect everything from crop sales to global trade. Whether it’s managing a farm operation, analyzing markets, securing financing, or leading ag-based companies, this field is all about strategy, communication, and innovation. Explore this pathway if you enjoy leadership, problem-solving, and making an impact on the business side of food, fiber, and fuel.

Education

Agri-business Degree - Ridgewater College

Agribusiness Degree - Minnesota West Community and Technical College

Agribusiness Degree - Riverland Community College

Agricultural Science - Riverland Community College

Agribusiness Agronomy Certificate - South Central College

Agribusiness Office Specialist - South Central College

Agribusiness - South Central College

Agribusiness Chemical Applicator Technician - South Central College

Agribusiness Management B.S. - Southwest Minnesota State University

Agriculture B.A.S - Southwest Minnesota State University

Agriculture Education B.S. - Southwest Minnesota State University

Sustainable Agricultural Solutions B.S. - Southwest Minnesota State University

Precision Agriculture A.A.S. - Ridgewater College

Agricultural Science A.S. - Central Lakes College

Agriculture A.S. - Minnesota West Community and Technical College

Agriculture Education A.S. - Northland Community and Technical College

Agriculture Education Technology A.S. - South Central College

Agriculture & Veterinary Technology A.S. - Ridgewater College

Agriculture Business Management and Marketing A.A.S. - Minnesota West Community and Technical College

Agriculture Production A.A.S. - Minnesota West Community and Technical College

Agriculture Production Management A.S. - Minnesota West Community and Technical College

UAS & Geospatial Applications Certificate - Northland

Agricultural Science Concentration A.A. - Riverland Community College

Precision Agriculture Certificate - Riverland Community College

Farm Operation and Mangement Diploma- Ridgewater College

Agribusiness and Food innovation B.S. - Minnesota State University, Mankato

Salary Examples

Marketing / Product Manager: $115,000 - $170,000

Application Support Specialist: $51,000 - $71,000

Agronomy Location Manager: $60,000 - $94,000

Feed and Grains Receiving Agent: $37,000 - $50,000

Farm and Animal Health Department Manager: $34,000 - $46,000

Average Annual Salary

$34k — $170k

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Natural Resources Systems

What You'll Do

Do you enjoy the outdoors and want to protect the environment for future generations? The Natural Resources Systems pathway focuses on the conservation, management, and sustainable use of natural resources such as soil, water, forests, and wildlife. Individuals in this field work to balance the needs of agriculture and society with the health of our ecosystems. From monitoring water quality and managing forests to restoring habitats and protecting biodiversity, careers in this pathway combine science, stewardship, and a passion for the natural world. Explore this pathway if you're driven to make a difference in the environment and want a career that takes you beyond the classroom and into the field.

Education

Natural Resources A.A.S. - Central Lakes College

Natural Resources Conservation Officer A.A.S. - Central Lakes College

Natural Resources Forest Resources A.A.S. - MN North - Itasca

Natural Resources Law Enforcement A.A.S. - MN North - Itasca

Natural Resources Geospatial A.A.S. - MN North - Itasca

Natural Resources Wildland Firefighting Diploma, A.A.S. - MN North - Itasca

Land Surveying A.S. - MN North - Vermilion

Fisheries and Wildlife A.S. - MN North - Vermilion

Natural Resources Technology A.A.S. - MN North - Vermilion

Wildlife Ecology Certificate - MN North - Vermillion

Water Quality Science A.A.S. - MN North - Vermillion

Watershed Science A.S. - MN North - Vermillion

Water Environment Technology A.A.S., Diploma - St. Cloud Technical & Community College

Wilderness & Park Management A.A.S. - MN North - Vermillion

Wildland Firefighting Certificate - Lake Superior

Wilderness Management B.A.S. - Bemidji State University

Wildlife Biology B.S. - Bemidji State University

Ecology B.S. - Minnesota State University, Mankato

Ecology & Evolutionary Biology B.S. - Minnesota State University, Moorhead

Sustainability B.S. - Minnesota State University, Moorhead

Environmental Science A.S. - Rochester Community & Technical College

Wildlife Tourism Certificate - Central Lakes College

Urban Forestry Technician A.A.S. - Hennepin Technical College

Backcountry Guide Certificate - MN North- Vermillion

Outdoor Leadership A.A.S., A.S., Certificate - MN North- Vermillion

Outdoor Recreation Therapy A.S. - MN North- Vermillion

Biology Transfer Pathway - Minnesota State Community & Technical College

Agricultural Science A.S. - Central Lakes College

Salary Examples

Forest Ecology and Policy Program Consultant: $74,000 - $110,000

Conservation Technician: $42,000 - $62,000

Roving Habitat Enhancement Crew Supervisor: $63,000 - $91,000

Recreation Coordinator / Specialist: $30,000 - $44,000

Fish and Wildlife Biologist: $61,000 - $78,000

Average Annual Salary

$30k — $110k

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Power, Structural, and Technical Systems

What You'll Do

Do you enjoy working with your hands, solving problems, and using technology to build and repair? The Power, Structural, and Technical Systems pathway is where agriculture meets engineering, offering hands-on careers that keep the ag industry running smoothly. In this pathway, individuals design, install, maintain, and repair the equipment and structures that support modern agriculture—from tractors and robotics to irrigation systems and grain elevators. Careers in this field blend mechanical know-how, electrical systems, precision technology, and construction skills to create safe and efficient ag environments. Whether you're troubleshooting diesel engines, setting up precision ag systems, or constructing animal housing, this high-tech, high-skill pathway offers exciting opportunities in ag mechanics, welding, hydraulics, and more. Explore this pathway if you want to be the one who powers the future of agriculture through innovation and hands-on skill.

Education

Ag Power & Equipment Technician Diploma - Ridgewater College

Agribusiness Service Technician Diploma - South Central College

Robotics/Automated Systems Technology A.A.S, Diploma - Central Lakes College

Automated Robotics Engineering Technology A.A.S. - Hennepin Technical College

Mechatronics A.A.S. - Minnesota West Community and Technical College

Heavy Equipment Operations and Maintenance - Central Lakes College

Welding Technology - Alexandria Technical & Community College

Welding & Fabrication A.A.S., Diploma - Central Lakes College

Welding and Metal Fabrication Certificate - Hennepin Technical College

Welding Technology Diploma - Minnesota State College Southeast

Welding Certificate, Diploma - Minnesota West Community and Technical College

Robotics & Industrial Controls A.A.S. - St. Cloud Technical & Community College

Welding A.A.S., Diploma, Certificate - Ridgewater College

Welding Technology - Rochester Technical and Community College

Welding Diploma - South Central College

Welding Technology Diploma - Pine Technical & Community College

Welding/Fabrication Diploma - St. Cloud Technical & Community College

Welding Diploma, Certificate - St. Paul College

Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology - Central Lakes College

Diesel Mechanics Diploma, A.A.S. - Alexandria Technical & Community College

Diesel Mechanics & Heavy Equipment A.A.S.- Hibbing Community College

Mechatronics A.A.S. - Northland Community & Technical College

Diesel Technician A.A.S., Diploma - Minnesota West Community and Technical College

Diesel Equipment Technology - Minnesota State Community and Technical College

Medium/Heavy Truck Technician Diploma, A.A.S. - St. Cloud Technical & Community College

Gunsmithing & Firearms Technology Diploma - Pine Technical & Community College

Automated Systems Technology Diploma - Pine Technical & Community College

Precision Agriculture Certificate - Riverland Community College

Precisions Agriculture A.A.S. - Ridgewater College

Precision Farming Certificate - Ridgewater College

Precision Agriculture Application Technician Certificate - Minnesota West Community & Technical College

Mechatronics A.A.S. - Minnesota State College Southeast

Salary Examples

Plant Maintenance Technician: $56,000 – $78,000

Fuel Distribution Systems Operator: $70,000 – $88,000

Mechanical Engineer, Wind and Hypersonics: $97,000 – $122,000

Wind Turbine Technician: $57,000 – $74,000

Wind/Solar Collections Engineer: $93,000 – $143,000

Average Annual Salary

$56k — $143k

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Biotechnology

What You'll Do

Curious about the science behind better crops, healthier animals, and sustainable food systems? The Biotechnology Systems pathway dives into the cutting-edge world of agricultural research and innovation. In this pathway, individuals use biological processes to improve plants, animals, and microorganisms. From genetic engineering and tissue culture to lab analysis and bioinformatics, careers in this field focus on advancing food production, disease resistance, and environmental stewardship. This is the place for problem-solvers and science lovers—those who want to work in labs, experiment with DNA, and help shape the future of agriculture through biology and technology. Explore this pathway if you’re passionate about science and want to play a role in feeding the world through innovation and discovery.

Salary Examples

Biological Scientist: $87,000 - $122,000

Chief System Operator: $99,000 - $120,000

Chemistry Technician: $50,000 - $75,000

Lab Technician: $43,000 - $68,000

Agricultural / Consumer Safety Inspector: $58,000 - $72,000

Average Annual Salary

$43k — $122k

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Environmental Systems

What You'll Do

Passionate about protecting the planet and solving real-world environmental challenges? The Environmental Service Systems pathway focuses on improving environmental quality through science, innovation, and sustainable practices. Individuals in this pathway work to monitor pollution, manage waste, and develop solutions that protect air, water, and soil. From environmental testing and recycling programs to renewable energy and policy work, this field is all about creating a cleaner, healthier world. Explore this pathway if you're driven to make an impact on the environment and want a career that combines science, technology, and stewardship.

Salary Examples

Waste Abatement Technician: $47,000 - $68,000

Environmental Water Field Tech: $47,000 - $70,000

Environmental Services Director: $70,000 - $98,000

Environmental Engineer: $79,000 - $125,000

Environmental Regulatory Compliance Specialist: $77,000 - $113,000

Average Annual Salary

$47k — $125k

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Food Products and Processing Systems

What You'll Do

Ever wonder how food gets from the farm to your fork? The Food Products and Processing Systems pathway explores the science, safety, and innovation behind turning raw agricultural goods into the products we eat every day. Individuals in this pathway are involved in every step of the food production chain—from quality control and packaging to food safety, research, and product development. This field blends biology, chemistry, engineering, and technology to ensure that our food is nutritious, safe, and sustainable. Explore this pathway if you're interested in food science, innovation, and playing a key role in feeding the world.

Salary Examples

Meat Cutter: $41,000 - $51,000

Grain Facility Maintenance Mechanic: $47,000 - $64,000

Grain Elevator Operator: $63,000 - $87,000

Production Supervisor: $66,000 - $104,000

Food Process Engineer: $104,000 - $145,000

Average Annual Salary

$41k — $145k

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Plant Systems

What You'll Do

Are you fascinated by how plants grow, how food is produced, or how we can feed a growing world? The Plant Systems pathway focuses on the science, technology, and care behind growing crops, managing green spaces, and improving plant health and productivity.

Individuals in this pathway explore everything from soil science and crop production to greenhouse management and plant genetics. Whether it’s in a field, lab, greenhouse, or orchard, this field blends biology, sustainability, and innovation to support global agriculture and ecosystems.

Explore this pathway if you’re interested in plants, the environment, and helping agriculture thrive through science and stewardship.

Salary Examples

Plant Conservation Technician: $40,000 - $55,000

Plant Community Ecologist: $66,000 - $110,000

Groundskeeper: $34,000 - $45,000

Climbing Arborist / Tree Worker: $52,000 - $67,000

Soil Scientist: $67,000 - $106,000

Average Annual Salary

$34k — $110k

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Animal Systems

What You'll Do

If you’re passionate about animals and want to play a role in their health, nutrition, and care, the Animal Systems pathway offers a rewarding and hands-on future. This pathway focuses on the biology, production, and management of animals used in agriculture, including livestock, poultry, and companion animals. Individuals in this field work to improve animal welfare, ensure a safe and sustainable food supply, and support the growing needs of animal agriculture. From breeding and genetics to feeding and handling, Animal Systems professionals combine science, care, and innovation to support both animal and human well-being. Explore this pathway if you care deeply about animals and want to be part of a dynamic, impactful part of agriculture.

Salary Examples

Veterinarian: $106,000 - $149,000

Veterinary Technician: $45,000 - $59,000

Animal Breeding Technician: $39,000 - $52,000

Swine Grow / Finish Technician: $43,000 - $57,000

Lab Animal Technician: $50,000 - $58,000

Average Annual Salary

$39k — $149k

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