Become aVertical Farm Engineer

Becoming a Vertical Farm Engineer means you get to work on one of the most innovative and impactful technologies in agriculture. If you’re passionate about the environment and love the idea of combining technology with nature, this career could be perfect for you. 

Working in food production, you’ll be helping to create systems that can feed the world sustainably. Plus, the demand for skilled engineers in this field is growing rapidly, offering plenty of job opportunities and the chance to work on exciting projects.

As a Vertical Farm Engineer, you can make a real difference in the world. You’ll be working on solutions that can help reduce food miles (the distance food travels from farm to plate), lower carbon footprints, and minimise the use of harmful pesticides and fertilisers. This career is not only about engineering; it’s about creating a better future for everyone.

• Innovate sustainable food production
• Enhance urban agriculture systems
• Improve global food security
• Work with emerging technology

A Vertical Farm Engineer’s daily tasks are diverse and challenging. You might start your day designing new systems to optimise plant growth, such as developing efficient lighting systems that mimic natural sunlight or creating automated irrigation systems that deliver just the right amount of water. You’ll also monitor and maintain existing systems, ensuring that all components are functioning correctly and making adjustments as needed to improve efficiency.

In addition to technical tasks, you’ll often work closely with other professionals, like agronomists, biologists, and environmental scientists, to develop comprehensive farming solutions. This collaboration is essential for creating systems that are not only technologically advanced but also sustainable and productive. You might also be involved in research and development, experimenting with new crops, techniques, and technologies to push the boundaries of what vertical farming can achieve.

Your work as a Vertical Farm Engineer can take you to various exciting places, from high tech urban farms in city centres to research facilities working on the next big breakthroughs in agriculture. You’ll have the opportunity to see the direct impact of your work, from healthier plants and higher yields to reduced environmental footprints and more resilient food systems.

Vertical Farm Engineers have the opportunity to work in a variety of industries. Here’s a look at some exciting fields where your skills can make a big impact:

Agriculture

Developing sustainable farming methods and improving crop yields.

Urban Planning

Integrating vertical farms into city landscapes to provide fresh food locally.

Technology

Working with tech companies to create innovative farming solutions and automation systems.

Environmental Science

Designing systems that reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability.

Research and Development

Exploring new crops, techniques, and technologies to advance vertical farming.

To become a successful Vertical Farm Engineer, you’ll need a mix of technical and practical STEM skills. Here are some key abilities you should focus on:

Engineering

Designing and building efficient farming systems.

Biology

Understanding plant growth and environmental needs.

Problem Solving

Finding creative solutions to complex challenges.

Technology

Using and developing automated systems and software.

Sustainability

Creating eco-friendly and resource efficient solutions.

Your subjects can lay a strong foundation for a career in vertical farming. Here are some important areas to focus on:

Mathematics

Crucial for engineering design and problem-solving.

Biology

Essential for understanding plant systems and growth conditions.

Physics

Helps with the principles of energy, light, and water systems.

Environmental Science

Important for sustainable design and resource management.

Computer Science

Useful for developing and using automated farming technologies.

As a Vertical Farm Engineer, you get to work on some truly amazing projects. You might design a farm that can grow fresh vegetables right in the middle of a busy city, helping to reduce food miles and provide local, sustainable food. You could develop high-tech systems that use sensors and AI to monitor plant health and optimise growing conditions. Imagine creating a farm that uses vertical space to grow hundreds of different plants in a skyscraper, or even designing systems that could one day be used to grow food on Mars.

• Design futuristic indoor farming systems.
• Implement AI for optimal plant growth.
• Experiment with hydroponics and aeroponics.
• Develop sustainable irrigation solutions.
• Collaborate with urban planners for green cities.
• Conduct research on new crop varieties.

Dr. Christine Pitt

CEO of Food Futures Company, championing sustainable food production.

Emma Weston

Co-founder and CEO of AgriDigital, revolutionising agricultural supply chains.

Dr. Anika Molesworth

Renowned advocate for sustainable farming practices.

Louisa Burwood-Taylor

Head of Media and Research at AgFunder, focusing on agtech innovations

Being a successful Vertical Farm Engineer requires more than just technical skills; it’s also about having the right mindset. Here are some important traits:

Creative

Thinking outside the box to design innovative solutions.

Persistent

Staying determined when facing challenges.

Curious

Always eager to learn and explore new technologies.

Collaborative

Working well with others to achieve common goals.

Sustainable

Passionate about creating eco-friendly solutions.

Educational Foundation

Start with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering, environmental science, or a related field. Look for specialised courses in sustainable agriculture and environmental engineering.

Advanced Degrees and Certifications

Pursue further studies such as a Master’s in Agricultural Engineering or Environmental Science to gain deeper insights into vertical farming technologies. Certifications in hydroponics or controlled environment agriculture can also be advantageous.

Interdisciplinary Approach

When you think about vertical farming, it’s not just about planting seeds! You’ll need to know about engineering, biology, technology, and sustainability. That’s why an interdisciplinary approach, where you learn a bit of everything, can be incredibly useful. Some universities offer programs where you can combine subjects like biology and engineering, or environmental science and technology. This way, you’re not just a whiz in one area, you become a multi-skilled pioneer in vertical farming.

Combining Degrees

Imagine pairing a degree in Environmental Science with Computer Science. What do you get? A super-skilled engineer ready to design the next generation of smart farms! Some universities allow you to study two degrees at the same time, so you can master the skills needed to innovate and excel in creating more efficient farming systems.

Lifelong Learning

Learning doesn’t stop at university. Workshops, online courses, and professional certifications can all add to your knowledge and skills. This ongoing learning can help you keep up with the latest technologies and farming techniques, making you an invaluable asset in this rapidly evolving field.

As a student in vertical farm engineering, you’ll study subjects that teach you how plants grow best and how to design farms that use space and resources efficiently. 

You’ll learn about the science of plant life, the mechanics of farm machinery, and even how to use computer models to predict how plants will grow in different environments. 

Not to mention, you’ll pick up on how to make farms more sustainable and environmentally friendly, which is super important for our planet

Thinking about work experience to test out this future career and industry? Look out for opportunities where you can work in vertical farms or companies focused on agricultural innovation. This real experience not only enhances what you learn in class but also puts you ahead when you’re ready to step into your career. Plus, it’s a chance to see if you really enjoy this type of work!

ALT PATHWAYS

Not keen on spending years at university? We understand, but there are other ways to kickstart your career in vertical farming:

Networking and Professional Development

Engage with professional networks and attend agricultural conferences and workshops. Being active in organisations like the Australian Controlled Environment Working Group (ACEWG) can provide valuable connections and mentorship opportunities.

Microlearning Platforms

Websites like Coursera or Udemy offer courses in areas like sustainable farming, basic engineering, and even robotics. These courses are usually short, specific, and skills-focused—perfect for getting started without the long-term commitment.

On-the-Job Training

Some companies might offer training programs where you learn while you work. This can be a fantastic way to earn and learn, gaining practical skills that are exactly what employers are looking for.

In Western Australia

The focus here is on innovation in sustainable agriculture due to its diverse climates and the need for water-efficient technologies. Opportunities are growing in urban agriculture startups and environmental consultancies.

Across Australia

With a strong focus on innovation and sustainability, Australia offers numerous opportunities in research, development, and practical application of vertical farming technologies in both private and public sectors.

Rest of the World

The global demand for vertical farm engineers is soaring, especially in densely populated cities in the United States, Europe, and Asia where space is at a premium and local, sustainable produce is valued.