Sean Kane – CAFRE Alumni
What is your current job and responsibilities?
I currently work as an Agri Supply Chain Manager at White’s Oats which is an oat miller in Tandragee, Co. Armagh. It is quite a diverse role which involves working with various stakeholders throughout the supply chain including plant breeders, researchers, farmers to name a few and the overall aim is to improve the quality and yield of oats being grown and delivered to the mill. As well as supply chain responsibilities I am responsible for oat research, agronomy support and agri business development.
What course did you study at CAFRE and how has it influenced your career?
I completed the BSc Honours Degree in Agricultural Technology, graduating in 2017. The course equipped me with a broad knowledge of the various farm enterprises common in Northern Ireland, which was very helpful when going into the job market. It was this diversity and range of choice which allowed me to develop an interest in arable farming something I didn’t think I was interested in and led me to my current role which is largely centred on supporting British and Irish arable farmers.
Why did you decide to study at CAFRE?
I was passionate about farming from a young age from growing up on a farm, I did not expect to have a career in the agricultural sector until I became aware of the opportunities that were available firstly through the education available at CAFRE and the demand in the sector for new ideas and energy. Farming is a profession which is diverse and this is something which has always motivated me I like to be doing different things and constantly learning I think this is reflected in the curriculum available at CAFRE.
Do you have a typical working day?
Every day is different – I could be in England advising organic farmers, working on trials at AFBI Crossnacreevy, developing technology to enhance knowledge transfer among growers! I really enjoy the variety of work – it is what keeps me motivated.
What is the best thing about your job?
Working with professional growers, I think seeing the range of different farming systems from small to large, highly mechanised to extensive, conventional to organic and even biodynamic. Therefore seeing these systems and how each farmer is making it work in their own way is quiet inspirational.
What is the greatest challenge of your job?
Weather has given us plenty of challenges over the last few years as droughts and wet autumns have resulted in reduced oat yields and quality.
What is your fondest memory of your time at CAFRE?
I have many fond memories such as our study tour to Brussels and farm visits. The practical application really helped our understanding of topics.
What advice would you give a new graduate?
Be patient – you do not need a job straight away and you may not always get your ideal job straight away so I would say enjoy the process. Secondly I would advise graduates to do what they are afraid of – I think fear holds a lot of people back and we doubt ourselves so I would say challenge yourself.