Nutrien Ag Solutions has been recognised as the number one graduate employer in Australia for careers in the environment and agriculture sector.

The award was presented by the Australian Association of Graduate Employers (AAGE) and Grad Australia, which also saw Nutrien listed in the Top 100 Graduate Employers for 2023 out of over 4000 employers.

“This is really important recognition for the careful consideration, innovative ideas, detailed planning, and meaningful support that our team put towards our grad programs and it's no wonder they are oversubscribed every year,” says Nutrien Ag Solutions managing director Kelly Freeman.

She said attracting and retaining talent continues to be a hot topic in agriculture for the future sustainability of the sector.

Shelley Nolan, Nutrien Ag Solutions senior director human resources, said it is important businesses offer employees opportunities to upskill and on the job training.

“We know that current and prospective employees want and need support with their learning and development and our Graduate Program is an example of how are meeting that demand.”

According to Hays Upskilling Report, 96% of survey respondents consider upskilling to be ‘important’ or ‘very important’ and it impacts their employment decision.

“Our graduates are exposed to different regions of Australia, different roles in the business, mentors and skills that go beyond just performing their day-today job,” Ms Nolan said.

“We have created a unique career experience that is leading the industry. Our grad programs are oversubscribed every year, and our employee experience is a reflection of our focused efforts towards learning and development.”

Nutrien’s 2023 Agronomy and Agribusiness Graduates came together in Melbourne recently to formally kick-off their two-year program.

Ms Nolan had this advice for the new starters. “Welcome to the 2023 agronomy and agribusiness graduates! Your passion and curiosity will take you a long way, so never lose either,” Mr Freeman said.