Sophisticated technologies, use of data, digitalization and new skills. These are the ingredients of so-called “AgTech” and smart farming, i.e. the trends that more than ever are shaping the agricultural industry. These are also the topics covered in the first episode of Global Trends, the new format from BKT Network which – over the course of eight episodes – will address the major trends in agriculture with the help of prestigious guests and international experts.
A range of contents and ideas emerged during this first episode, including agricultural mechanization as the fulcrum of the digital and technological revolution. Ömer Kuloğlu, producer and presenter of the Turkish magazine Traktörmetre, and also a well-known presenter and youtuber, spoke on the subject. According to the guest, saving on consumption, efficiency and ease of use are the three features most sought-after by modern farmers when it comes to buying a new tractor or new machinery. It is important that the tractors of the future, with the help of new technologies and functions, therefore meet these needs.
“As far as Turkey is concerned, there is a lot of interest from users in technological machinery, especially from young generations of farmers, who are very sensitive to these new trends – explains Ömer Kuloğlu during his talk. Unfortunately, the costs of the latest generation tractors are currently and often prohibitive. So, the hope is that new technologies will become progressively more accessible in the future.”
However, Smart Farming does not consist just of machinery, but also of people. The new changes in the industry will require increasingly well-prepared professionals with precise and varied skills, favoring a diversified workforce. This was well explained by Amy Wu, founder of From Farmers to Incubators, the Made in USA platform that tells the story of and valorizes innovative women in AgTech.
According to Wu, the agriculture of the future will create new opportunities especially for women, who are increasingly deciding to study and work in STEM disciplines (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). “In an industry that is facing decisive changes and serious threats, the climate one above all, there is a need for new talents and skills – explains Amy Wu – and the generational change will and is already bringing out new protagonists, often women, capable of creating value. This happens not only thanks to their preparation, but also to their resourcefulness, creativity and focus on sustainability. The diversification of the workforce is a real opportunity for agriculture.
