Encouraging new and diverse talent

We want to inspire the next generation of farming talent.

As one of the biggest supporters of Irish and British agriculture, we want to inspire the next generation of farming talent. We know that many young people today may not realise the variety of roles the Irish and British food or farming industry can offer. We want to challenge those misperceptions through programmes that showcase the real benefits of a career in this space.

Progressive Young Farmers

To apply, click here. 

We offer 10 undergraduate students a 12-month placement opportunity through our Progressive Young Farmer programme to learn about and understand the process of food production from Farm to Front Counter. The year provides an opportunity to learn vital industry skills, gain practical experience and receive mentoring from businesses, farmers and stakeholders that supply us with beef, chicken, potatoes, pork, dairy or eggs.

The programme is just one of the ways we are working towards our goal to support over 100 young people from non-traditional farming backgrounds to kick-start careers in the food and farming sector by 2025. By the end of 2024, 79 people have participated in our Young Talent programme, of which 61% were women and 28% from non-farming backgrounds (2012 to 2024).​

The people behind our Plan

One of the best parts about the placement is getting to know so many other inspiring young people with the same passion for agriculture. It has really opened my eyes to the talent we have in our industry and the value we can all provide, whether we have an agricultural background or not.

I’ve also had the opportunity to work on some sustainability projects and to visit lots of our hard-working farmer suppliers to see the great work they are already doing on their farms.

I would highly recommend the McDonald’s Progressive Young Farmers placement to anyone who is interested in learning more about the agriculture industry."

Nathan McLure, 2024 Progressive Young Farmer, on a placement with beef supplier, Dawn Meats.

 

     

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