What's Happening?
The GrowHer program, a collaborative initiative by CQUniversity's Agri-tech Education and Extension team and AgriBusiness Connect, has opened applications for its 2026 edition. This program invites female students from regional Queensland in Years 7-12
to explore leadership and innovation in agriculture and AgTech. Following the success of the 2025 program, which engaged nearly 150 students, GrowHer 2026 aims to provide hands-on learning experiences, industry connections, and mentorship opportunities. Participants will engage in a one-day workshop to design AgTech solutions for real-world agricultural challenges. Dr. Jaime Manning, a Senior Lecturer in Agriculture at CQUniversity, emphasizes the program's role in showcasing the diverse career opportunities in modern agriculture driven by innovation and technology.
Why It's Important?
The GrowHer program is significant as it addresses the growing need for innovation and technology in agriculture, a sector undergoing digital transformation. By empowering young women with skills and confidence in AgTech, the program contributes to diversifying the workforce and preparing future leaders in agriculture. The initiative aligns with forecasts indicating that by 2029, over 40% of agricultural jobs in Queensland will be transformed by technology, with a significant portion being technology-related roles. This program not only supports gender diversity in a traditionally male-dominated field but also ensures that the agricultural industry can meet future technological demands.
What's Next?
Applications for the GrowHer program are open until April 24, 2026. Successful teams will have the opportunity to participate in a Queensland innovation event, where they can further develop their ideas and expand their professional networks. This event will provide participants with a platform to experience AgTech innovation firsthand and potentially influence their career paths in the agricultural sector. The program's outcomes could inspire similar initiatives in other regions, promoting a broader adoption of technology in agriculture.
