A sector in transition. A workforce in demand.
Workforce Development in Agriculture
Agriculture is a key part of New Brunswick s economy and a sector undergoing significant transformation. Employers need new talent, new skills, and clearer pathways into the industry.
Have you considered...
Agriculture now includes automation, greenhouse systems, logistics, food safety, and data-enabled production. It is much broader than traditional field labour alone.
Approximately 17,000 people work across the agri-food sector in New Brunswick.
More than 11,500 New Brunswickers work directly in agriculture and food production.
$1+ billion in annual food and beverage production.
Strong rural impact with roughly 2% of provincial GDP tied to agriculture.
A workforce under renewal
A significant portion of the workforce is approaching retirement.
Employers continue to face ongoing labour shortages.
New workers are needed in production, supervision, logistics, equipment, and agri-tech.
This creates real openings for people entering or transitioning into the sector.
An industry evolving with technology
Automation and advanced equipment
Greenhouse and controlled-environment production
Data, monitoring systems, and precision agriculture
New approaches to sustainability and food production
More than traditional farming
Equipment operators and farm workers
Greenhouse and production technicians
Food safety and quality control specialists
Logistics and supply chain roles
Agri-tech and data-related positions
Supervisory and management roles
Career pathway map
Stage 01
Entry into agriculture
Field, production, harvest, and support roles that build foundational knowledge.
Stage 02
Training and micro-credentials
College, university, safety, leadership, and technical programs that deepen capability.
Stage 03
Hands-on placements
Internships, co-op terms, and shared workforce placements that convert learning into practice.
Stage 04
Skilled and leadership roles
Supervisory, equipment, greenhouse, logistics, quality, and agri-tech opportunities.