The event proceeded with two panel discussions focusing on crucial industry topics. The first panel, "Sustainability in Ag," featuring panelists who are CSUMB alumni, was moderated by Nikki Cossio, CEO and Founder of Measure to Improve. Cossio opened the panel discussion with a presentation to provide context, highlighting the importance of a triple bottom line approach: “To truly define something as sustainable, you must include all three of these P’s: people, planet, and profit.” She stressed the importance of fair labor practices and efficient resource use, framing sustainability as essential for the agricultural sector's future.

Panelist Katie Chiapuzio, Director of Environmental Science and Resources at Braga Fresh, shared insights on the necessary skills for future leaders in sustainable agriculture. Focusing on communication as an essential skill, Chiapuzio stated, “If you can talk to an academic and you can talk to a farmer and you can get them into the same room and have them talk to each other, that is a success,” she noted. Wyatt Maysey, Director of Sustainability at Taylor Farms, encouraged attendees to integrate their passions into their agricultural careers, stating, “If you’re passionate about agriculture, ask yourself what your second passion is. How can you integrate that into your work?” He stressed that passion can sustain individuals through the challenges of the industry.

The second panel discussion, “Climate in Agriculture,” was moderated by Jeana Cadby, Environment & Climate Director at Western Growers. Jeana’s expertise is in sustainable agriculture and resource conservation, having worked extensively with farmers on issues related to soil health and climate resilience. She was joined by panelists Eric Brennan from the USDA Agricultural Research Service, Jeff Anderson, CEO of AllMade Materials, and Steve McIntyre, founder of McIntyre Vineyards. 

Anderson highlighted the potential for innovation in agriculture, stating, “If you just look around at all the different byproduct streams and waste streams that come off of this incredibly productive economy, you can find new uses for these products. And you can take off-the-shelf technologies and think about how to apply them to these undervalued compounds to create something much more valuable.” His insights underscore the importance of recognizing and transforming agricultural waste into profitable opportunities, paving the way for sustainable business practices in the industry.

Panelists offered valuable insights for aspiring business leaders in agriculture, emphasizing the critical roles of communication and vulnerability in effective leadership. McIntyre urged future leaders to “hire people that are smarter than you are,” advocating for the importance of surrounding oneself with talented individuals who can bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the table.

Brennan echoed this sentiment, highlighting the value of learning from mistakes as a pathway to growth. He remarked on the necessity of developing strong communication skills, noting that the ability to connect with others is vital.”We’re not going to be around in around 40 years. But what we will have left behind hopefully is some truth. Getting it right is actually more important than being right. It’s okay to be wrong, just correct yourself and move on.”

Attendees enjoyed a complimentary lunch, sponsored by Western Growers, fostering networking among participants. A job fair followed the forum, providing students with opportunities to connect with industry professionals about internships and career opportunities. 

Dr. Marylou Shockley, Interim Dean of the College of Business, expressed gratitude to all involved in organizing the event, highlighting the collaborative efforts of various community partners. She encouraged attendees to revisit the discussions by viewing the event recording posted on the College of Business YouTube channel.

This year’s Ag Jobs: Bringing A Greater Vision event successfully illustrated the importance of innovation, collaboration, and sustainability in agriculture, inspiring the next generation of leaders in the industry.

Ag Jobs: Bringing A Greater Vision is an annual event produced in partnership between Cal State Monterey Bay's College of Business and College of Science, the Grower-Shipper Foundation, and Western Growers. The Ag Jobs Career and Internship Fair is coordinated by CSUMB's Career Development Department. KAZU 93 is the official media sponsor.

For complete program details, go to csumb.edu/greatervision