Our Skills Lead, Lynne Somerville explains the importance of bringing skills in to the dairy industry and why our Think Dairy Careers Industry event will bring together influential organisations to work together.
The importance of workforce development in the UK dairy sector
The UK dairy industry is evolving rapidly, with technological advancements and a changing global marketplace shaping its future. As we look ahead, one of the most pressing challenges is ensuring the sector has a skilled and resilient workforce. Workforce development is essential to maintaining the industry’s competitiveness, sustainability, and capacity for innovation.
Addressing the talent challenge
Attracting and retaining talent in the dairy sector is more critical than ever. The upcoming Digital Dairy Chain event, taking place on 23rd April 2025 at the National Manufacturing Institute for Scotland (NMIS) in Glasgow, is dedicated to tackling this issue. This event brings together dairy farms, supply chain businesses, academic institutions, government agencies, and third-sector partners to explore strategic ways to build a strong and skilled workforce.
Discussions at the event will focus on strategies for attracting new talent to the dairy industry and recruitment practices that ensure long-term workforce retention. We will also have the opportunity to identify the skills needed for the workforce of tomorrow through the showcase of demonstrators we will have there on the day and the importance of collaboration to ensure academic partners are not working in silos, avoiding duplication of efforts, and maximising opportunities for innovation.
The importance of industry engagement
For the dairy sector to truly address workforce challenges, it is crucial for farms and supply chain businesses to be able to share their insights and real-world experience at events like this as they are vital in shaping effective workforce strategies. By voicing their needs and challenges, industry players ensure that training and development initiatives are aligned with practical demands, creating a more robust and effective talent pipeline.
Additionally, collaboration between industry stakeholders and academic partners is essential for a cohesive and joined-up approach. By working together, rather than in isolation, businesses and educational institutions can develop training programmes that are both relevant and innovative, ultimately strengthening the entire dairy supply chain.
Harnessing emerging technologies for workforce development
The dairy industry is undergoing a digital transformation, and emerging technologies will play a key role in shaping the workforce of the future. The Digital Dairy Chain event will showcase innovative technologies designed to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and create new opportunities for skill development within the sector. Demonstrations will include:
- Drone Technology – Improving farm management and monitoring livestock.
- Methane Monitoring – Supporting sustainability goals and regulatory compliance.
- Sensor Technology – Enhancing milk quality, animal health, and farm productivity.
- Digital Twinning Tech for Agriculture – Creating virtual models of farming systems for improved decision-making.
These technological advancements are not just about increasing productivity; they are also essential in making dairy careers more attractive to a new generation of workers who are interested in innovation and sustainability.
Bringing in fresh perspectives
One of the most exciting aspects of the Digital Dairy Chain event is the inclusion of exhibitors from outside the traditional agricultural sector. By introducing fresh perspectives and innovative solutions, the event aims to reshape workforce development and recruitment in the dairy industry. Some of the key exhibitors include:
- Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) and Skills Development Scotland (SDS) – Promoting career pathways in dairy for young professionals.
- The Institute of Agriculture & Horticulture (TIAH) – Providing resources for agricultural skills development.
- Scottish Wider Access Programme (SWAP) – Supporting diverse entry routes into the dairy industry.
- Loopsio, Flexibility Works, and Codebase – Showcasing new approaches to workforce flexibility, digital skills, and technological integration.
- Leading academic partners such as University West of Scotland, Scotland’s Rural College, National Manufacturing Institute Scotland, Kendal College, and University of Cumbria – Demonstrating the importance of education and research in workforce development.
The path forward for the UK dairy workforce
Investing in workforce development is vital for the future of the UK dairy sector. Events like this provide a crucial platform for collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing. By embracing technological advancements, fostering new talent, and leveraging expertise from diverse sectors, the UK dairy industry can build a workforce that is skilled, adaptable, and ready for the challenges of the future.
If you are part of the dairy supply chain, whether as a farmer, business owner, educator, or policymaker, attending this event will provide valuable insights into the future of the industry. The skills we develop today will define the success of the UK dairy sector for generations to come. Collaboration is key—by working together, we can ensure that the dairy industry thrives with a workforce equipped for the future.
Read more about our Think Dairy Careers initiative
