Career Planning

A bachelor’s of science degree in agricultural systems technology (AST) will provide you with all the skills you will need to succeed in a wide variety of careers. Students with a solid foundation of business and agricultural skills are in demand.

You can individualize your degree program to fit the career field that most interests you. The business and technical skills you’ll acquire while earning your AST degree will prepare you for any number of careers in many industries, including:

  • Agricultural and Power Equipment Manufacturing. Companies such as Caterpillar, Case IH and John Deere seek product developers, managers and supervisors trained in the latest in precision agriculture, hydraulics, electrical wiring, engines and machinery management.
  • Equipment Sales. Local and regional dealerships who sell agricultural machinery to agricultural producers seek technical sales representatives who possess strong product knowledge and an understanding of business finance and marketing to provide producers with the equipment they need.
  • Food Production and Processing. Companies such as Anheuser-Busch, Archer Daniels Midland, Frito-Lay, Pioneer Hi-Bred and Purina Mills seek grain elevator and mill operators and managers to properly handle, store and process agricultural crops and materials.
  • Government. State and federal agencies such as the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Natural Resources Conservation Service seek consultants and specialists to oversee and regulate pesticide application, water handling and irrigation systems, animal waste management systems, and watershed management.

Internship Requirement

Each agricultural systems technology student is encouraged to complete at least one summer of on-the-job experience, or its equivalent. Experience shows those graduating students who have had industry work experience will receive higher starting salaries and often more responsible positions than graduates without similar experience. Most firms offering internships in agricultural systems technology will pay the student.

You can obtain information on summer internships from your advisor. You may receive academic credit if you and the employer follow simple guidelines from the University. Generally, we give one hour of academic credit for every 80 hours of work experience. To receive credit you need to develop an internship plan with your adviser and employer. An internship application kit is available from your academic adviser.