Simon Logan – CAFRE Alumni

Simon Logan a former CAFRE, Greenmount Campus student, recently took time out of his busy schedule to tell us about his education, career, and passion for the Northern Ireland agri-food industry.

Tell us a little about your job, Simon?

I am the Reproduction Management Systems (RMS) Manager for Genus ABS and manage a team of thirty technicians who are responsible for the fertility management of 40 000 cows across Northern Ireland. Genus is a global operation which has afforded me many opportunities to travel and meet many people from across the globe with one thing in common, to create profit for customers through genetic progress.

What do you enjoy about your job?

Genus provides a 364 day-a-year service to our customers making my work days variable depending on the time of year and customer needs. Alongside my team of hard-working technicians, many who like me are CAFRE graduates, I enjoy the variety of my work in assisting farmers optimise fertility performance in their herds.

You mentioned studying at CAFRE, what course did you study at the College of Agriculture and Rural Enterprise?

I didn’t grow up on a farm but from an early age I knew I wanted a career in agriculture. I had a passion for working with animals and working outdoors! After visiting a CAFRE open day at Greenmount Campus and learning about all the career possibilities I knew that CAFRE was where I needed to be to start that journey. So, after completing my A-Levels at Regent House Grammar I enrolled at Greenmount Campus in Co Antrim to begin a three year Higher National Diploma in Agriculture course. That marked the beginning of an exciting three year adventure at CAFRE.

What is your fondest memory of your time at CAFRE?

I have many fond memories. The excitement of living in the campus accommodation during my first year, going to Brussels on a study tour and travelling to New Zealand for a twelve month work-placement on a 1400 cow dairy farm are times I remember with much affection. However, on reflection I realise that during my time at Greenmount I became part of the wider CAFRE community. As I work with farmers and others in the sector, I meet many former CAFRE students all with their own bank of memories. Often it’s those shared memories that form relationships helping us do business together. That’s special.

Would you recommend studying at CAFRE?

Yes, most definitely. In my job I get an opportunity to meet students at the CAFRE careers fair an event where the agri-food industry comes together to showcase the diverse opportunities and career paths available. Genus ABS, like many other businesses offer a CAFRE student bursary and work placement opportunities.  The strong industry linkages, financial support through the bursary system and opportunities for international travel provide a fantastic learning environment.  

What is your advice to someone considering a career in the agriculture sector?

Exciting careers in agriculture which offer a competitive salary, good work-life balance and career progression are available both in Northern Ireland and beyond. Like in all industries if you have a good work ethic, take responsibility and grasp opportunities to develop skills you can have an exciting career. Start your journey by visiting the Greenmount open day on Wednesday 1st April 2020 from 3.00pm – 8.00pm. Visit www.cafre.ac.uk