Empowering the next generation of women farmers

With the focus of this year's celebrations on DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality, it only seems fitting to share the story of one of our amazing Agriculture students who has been fortunate to enjoy access to cutting edge, precision agriculture technologies and robotics, thanks to our partnership with the Institute of Technology. 

UCBB and Bishop Burton College are proud to be a partner of the Institute of Technology empowering future generations of farmers. Foundation Degree in Science (FdSc) Agriculture student Laura Cooper is a fantastic example of how the Institute of Technology is helping to upskill and empower young agriculture professionals making them career ready for the future.  

“The future of Farming is full of opportunity – more technology and chances for women and young people to come into the agriculture sector. The IoT has helped develop my skills, especially in light of the industry always changing. “ Laura Cooper, Foundation Degree in Science (FdSc) Agriculture

Laura, who studied a Foundation Degree in Science (FdSc) Agriculture isn’t from a farming family and originally went to university to study counselling. However, after helping out with a season of lambing, she fell in love with agriculture and embarked on a career change. She spotted a role at a local Dairy with the hopes of learning more about the sector and never looked back.

Fully embracing her new direction, Laura was keen to develop her skills as an agriculture professional further and identified the FdSc Agriculture at University Centre Bishop Burton in Beverley, East Yorkshire as a great way to develop her expertise.

Laura said “I was really impressed with the access to precision farming technologies that would help me to upskill for my role at the Dairy and also provide me with wider higher-level agricultural skills for the future. I love that I’m able to study alongside working as well.”

“The things that I’ve learnt in the classroom, I’ve been able to put into practice, while at work - so the skills I’ve learned have definitely helped me outside of University. When I’ve finished my course, I see myself continuing working at the Dairy and I’m excited about the future of farming and the range of opportunities available to myself and other women. I feel confident I’m equipped with the skills and knowledge I need to succeed.”

Laura is passionate about widening awareness of the agricultural sector and helping other women pursue exciting career paths within the industry. “I wish I’d known how many opportunities there are within the industry” she said, “whether you’re from a farming background or not. It would be great to see agriculture taught within secondary schools, teaching where food comes from and the job opportunities within farming.”

To follow in Laura's footsteps take a look at our range of Agriculture courses and discover more about the Institute of Technology at Bishop Burton.