Inspiring the next generation of agricultural engineers is the aim of a free careers forum organised by the Douglas Bomford Trust, Harper Adams University and the Institution of Agricultural Engineers, to be held at Harper Adams University on 7 November 2013.

Entitled “Worldwide opportunities in engineering for agriculture” the event is designed to inspire and encourage the next generation of engineers to play a key role in agriculture and food production. All potential recruits, such as school leavers, students considering a career in engineering and engineering graduates looking for a rewarding career, are encouraged to come along.

The Forum will be a platform for producers, practitioners and young agricultural engineers to talk about their careers, the challenges and opportunities faced and how they see their careers developing. No death by PowerPoint but interactive debate, discussions and demonstrations illustrating why engineering for agriculture is an exciting career choice.

Professor Paul Miller, secretary of the Douglas Bomford Trust said, “In the UK engineering and agriculture have been under played and together are not seen as an attractive or of sufficient value to received adequate investment. This event aims to present the opportunities, challenges and rewards available that will attract, motivate and inspire the future generation of agricultural engineering professionals.”

Sir John Beddington, commissioner of the Foresight Report “The Future of Food and Farming” is one of the key presenters talking about the importance of technology and engineering in the global food security challenge. He will be joined by representatives from companies such as AGCO, -Agrii and Pepsico - and academics from Cranfield, Harper Adams University and the South China Agricultural University. There will also be a series of technical demonstrations including robots and autonomous vehicles, high-speed tractor design and precision agriculture and livestock management.

A selection of key employers in the sector such as John Deere, JCB and Claas will be present to help recruit the next generation of engineers and there will be plenty of chances for visitors to interact with companies to discuss experiences and career opportunities.

The Douglas Bomford Lecture Theatre, which is part of the new £2.93m Agricultural Engineering Facility at Harper Adams University, will also be named at the event. The facility is intended to supplement existing resources and provide a physical base around which university/industry collaboration can be stimulated.

For more details on the Forum and how to sign up please visit the DBT website.