The image of farmers clad in flannel shirts while livestock pull plows through the fields may still be foremost on the minds of individuals asked to imagine farm life. But such images may no longer reflect an industry increasingly governed by advanced technology.
Even small-scale family farms have recognized the advantages of embracing technology to help make their operations more efficient and successful. Manual plows and tractors largely have been replaced by fleets of autonomous machines and precision farming technology.
Experts agree that the evolution of modern farming is a case study in the application of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. STEM is helping to address the problem of global food security and widespread climate change. U.S. News & World Report says 27 percent of new high-skills jobs in agriculture will require a STEM education. There are many ways STEM is utilized within the agricultural sector.
