A younger graduate’s perspective on the sugar industry and what aspects could be improved

Younger graduates in the sugar industry work with a variety of knowledgeable employees and are exposed to a sustainable, complex processing chain. Fresh eyes bring new ideas and perspectives, which is beneficial to both agricultural and milling sectors. The involvement of younger graduates in the sugar industry is crucial to ensure the wealth of knowledge within the aging workforce is not lost. Within the session we will discuss what is required to ensure graduates want to work within the industry and how the industry will be able to cope with the new generation of millennials changing jobs frequently in an ever-changing world. We will hear from a variety of graduates where they will discuss innovative technology use, their experience as young extension officers and shift supervisors, and their involvement in managing capital and maintenance projects. The session will progress into a workshop where we will discuss what aspects of the sugar industry can be improved for young graduates. Perspective from both the agricultural side and the milling side will be examined. The graduate session is open to everyone at the conference to attend and we welcome open discussion. Objectives of this session are to note the key issues raised and potential solutions, and to create positive change with the industry that will benefit current and future graduates and the sugar industry as a whole.