Equine extension Agent

One of many careers in the equine industry is equine extension agents. These individuals typically work for university extensions that manage various community projects such as 4-H programs and community outreach efforts. They develop, implement and evaluate educational programs. They also market 4-H curriculums to area schools in an effort to get children involved in the program and they act as a liaison between community leaders and the general public. Qualified individuals for these positions have a master’s degree from an accredited school in relative fields. For example, animal science, equine science, and education are all suitable degrees. In addition, a generous background in the equine industry is an absolute requirement. Other areas of education that are also desired, but not necessarily required are specialized training in equine nutrition, physiology or growth and development.

Equine extension agents will also posses good oral and written communication skills since the position requires daily contact with people and a primary task of communicating with various members of the community at a range of levels. Also, the ability to recruit, manage, and retain volunteers is essential. A desire to work with youth ranging in all ages is necessary. The 4-H program focuses on you ages 8-18, but special programs may bring this position into contact with younger children as well.

An equine extension agent enjoys moderate working conditions. Various amounts of their work is done in an office setting, wile a majority of it is done at various outside locations. The agent is responsible for a variety of activities such as county horse shows, hippology contest and informational seminars. While some of the county’s events are held at the extension office, others are held at various other locations and it may be necessary for the agent to do some light traveling in order to accommodate this. Equine extension agents are typically hired on as an associate and then promoted within a few years to extension agent. The base salary for the position is typically #35,000 per year depending on the location and varies with experience.