Careers that help feed the world – Part 2: Investing in people and knowledge
In the first article of this series, we explored the wide range of careers that power the poultry sector — from geneticists and veterinarians to farm managers, nutritionists and logistics specialists.
But building a career in poultry is not only about entering the industry — it is about growing, learning and finding your place within it.
As demand for poultry grows, developing talent is essential. Training, mentorship and knowledge exchange enable professionals to build skills, advance their careers and share expertise across the value chain.
People power the poultry industry
Behind every healthy flock are people making daily decisions that shape animal welfare, biosecurity, efficiency and sustainability.
Developing that expertise takes ongoing learning. Through professional development and collaboration across our global network, people build practical knowledge that makes a difference on farms and in operations.
Why investing in people matters
Career development supports the sector’s broader goals.
Well-trained professionals protect bird welfare through good management practices. Strong biosecurity reduces disease risks, while skilled teams improve flock performance and support responsible production.
When people grow, the entire value chain benefits — leading to healthier flocks, more resilient supply chains and a more stable food system. Simply put, to breed the best birds, the industry needs the best people.
Learning together to strengthen poultry production
One of the most effective ways to build that expertise is through knowledge sharing.
We support this through global training initiatives that bring producers and specialists together to exchange practical experience. Production Management Schools across North America, the Middle East, Türkiye, Africa and Europe offer insights into flock management.
In Latin America, Knowledge Without Borders events create space for dialogue between producers and specialists. Programs such as In-Company Connection in Brazil and the Aviagen Master Class in Asia offer further hands-on learning and collaboration.
Developing the next generation
The future of poultry depends on inspiring the next generation.
Scholarships support students studying poultry science and related fields, while internships and exchange programs provide hands-on experience. Mentorship is also key, with experienced professionals helping early-career colleagues build confidence and skills.
Cross-functional career paths allow individuals to gain experience across research, operations and management, developing future leaders.
Breeding success together
The poultry industry thrives on collaboration. Specialists from breeding, nutrition, veterinary care and incubation work together to support producers.
By sharing knowledge and experience, they strengthen the poultry community, reflecting a shared commitment to breeding success together.
Growing talent from within
Behind every strong team are people learning, growing and stepping into new opportunities. We invest in our people to build a workforce that is adaptable, skilled and ready for what comes next.
Leadership development programs support employees as they take on new responsibilities. In-house welfare training also enables certification through the Professional Animal Auditor Certification Organization (PAACO), strengthening understanding of animal care and auditing.
Supporting future talent is equally important. The Ian Panton Scholarship helps support the next generation of industry leaders, alongside additional scholarship opportunities for employees and their families. For advanced scientific careers, our two-year Technical Development Program (TDP) combines research with practical experience.
Together, these efforts strengthen retention, build expertise and support continuous improvement.
Strengthening food security through people
Providing sustainable animal protein for a growing population depends on skilled people.
By investing in training, knowledge sharing and career development, we strengthen poultry production and support global food security.
For those who choose this path, it is more than a career — it is a chance to contribute to something essential: ensuring communities everywhere have access to affordable, nutritious food.
And that is work that truly makes a difference — for people, for communities and for the future of food.
To learn more about career opportunities and how you can be part of feeding the world, visit the Aviagen Careers website.