AGCAREERS.COM FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE 28 Technology significantly impacts food and beverage processing careers, leading professionals to adapt, learn new skills, and continuously learn to remain competitive and effective in their roles. It’s important to note that this does not mean fewer jobs available to people—but it does mean the more repetitive and manual tasks (that are hard to recruit for anyway) will be a thing of the past in many organizations. New technologies have the potential to drive growth, innovation, and competitiveness in the industry while creating new opportunities for skilled workers. Here’s how individuals are responding to how technology is influencing careers: AUTOMATION AND ROBOTICS Automation and robotics are increasingly used in food and beverage processing plants to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and ensure consistent product quality. Professionals in this field are learning to operate and maintain automated systems and troubleshoot issues that arise. They may also need to develop programming and robotics skills to work with advanced automation technologies. Check out FoodGrads podcast episode 81 to hear a conversation with Harjeet, President and CEO of Savormetrics, to learn how he harnesses the power of AI, sensors, and engineering to improve food safety and reduce food waste. DATA ANALYTICS AND IOT (INTERNET OF THINGS) IoT sensors and data analytics are being integrated into food processing equipment to monitor real-time parameters such as temperature, humidity, and pressure. Professionals are learning to leverage data analytics tools to optimize processing parameters, predict equipment failures, and improve efficiency. They may also need to understand cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data. Evonne Chan, Food, Grocery and Nutrition Data Analyst from Pinto, shares her experience in turning a side gig into a full-time job in data analytics. by Nicole Gallace, Talent Solutions Manager, FoodGrads Photo by winnievinzence on Adobe Stock So if there was something I could do with technology that also made a social impact, that was something that always drove me. – Harjeet Bajaj President & CEO, Savormetrics “ >>> I would challenge them (students) to think about all the other ways they could be in the food industry, but be in a role that you really enjoy. For me, that was data! - Evonne Chan Food, Grocery & Nutrition Data Analyst, Pinto “
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