The irrigation industry is facing increasing challenges in attracting and retaining a skilled workforce. At the 2024 Irrigation Show and Education Week, a session titled “Diversity, Inclusion and Opportunity: Strategies to Attract, Develop and Retain the Industry’s Future Workforce” will address approaches for meeting this need, according to the presentation’s panel.
The session will feature a panel of HR professionals from irrigation companies including Theresa Parra, executive director of people and development at Netafim; Ganaelle Larquemin, human relations manager at Rain Bird; and Kerry Kahn, talent acquisition supervisor at Hunter Industries. Mauricio Troche, director of sales for Rivulis Irrigation and Chair of the IA’s Diversity, Inclusion and Opportunity Advisory Group, will moderate the discussion, which will focus on recruiting from non-traditional sources and creating inclusive workplaces.
Inge Bisconer, managing member of Surf ‘N Earth Enterprises, LLC, president of the IA board of directors, and a member of the DIO advisory group, emphasized the importance of broadening the industry’s approach to recruitment.
“It’s no secret to industry members that efficient ag and landscape irrigation are the centerpiece of a healthy planet and happy people on so many different levels,” says Bisconer. “Unfortunately, it’s not well known outside our industry, and we must do a better job communicating its value as we recruit the industry’s future workforce to address society’s pressing challenges.”
The session will include case studies from the agriculture and landscape sectors, providing tools for expanding talent acquisition efforts and fostering inclusive work environments. Leadership’s role in supporting diversity and inclusion initiatives will be a part of the discussion.
“Irrigation professionals add value by helping their customers not only irrigate efficiently, but address modern-day challenges such as climate change and sustainability in an ever-changing world,” says Bisconer. “It will take the best and brightest minds of all ages and from all walks of life to address these challenges.”.
The panel will explore how companies are adapting their workforce strategies to ensure that no one is overlooked, and that the irrigation industry is better positioned to meet future demands.
“Talented, potential candidates from outside the industry aren’t necessarily aware of how ag and landscape resonate with their career goals, and the irrigation industry isn’t necessarily aware of how to reach a wider demographic,” says Bisconer. “In this attract, develop, and retain session, the IA’s member companies will generously share their strategies for ensuring the industry’s workforce overlooks no one, and that no one overlooks the irrigation industry.”
The session will take place 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 6, at the 2024 Irrigation Show and Education Week in Long Beach, California, and will include a Q&A segment to give attendees practical insights they can implement in their organizations.
Information about the 2024 Irrigation Show, including registration information can be found here.
