Agriculture encompasses the study of fundamental principles of agriscience safety, scientific and technical procedures, environmental science, food safety, plant and animal sciences applied to agriculture, and food and natural resource systems.
Certifications were developed through comprehensive needs assessments and job analysis within the agriculture industry. AEST Certifications are meeting industry needs by identifying workers with specific, employer-demanded knowledge, skills and abilities to support hiring practices and fill the gap in employment needs.
U.S. Sugar is a South Florida-based farming and processing company that sustainably grows sugarcane, citrus, sweet corn and other winter and spring vegetables that feed American families. The company was founded in 1931 by Charles Stewart Mott, a visionary leader who hailed from a long line of farmers. Since the beginning, the company’s success has been rooted in traditional farming values and respect for the land. U.S. Sugar also operates a sugar refinery in Savannah, Georgia that produces retail and store-brand sugar for customers throughout the southeast. Along with operating its 300-mile railroad, in total, U.S. Sugar sustainably farms 255,000 acres in Highlands, Glades, Hendry, Palm Beach and Martin counties in Florida and serves as a vital part of our rural communities, providing 3,000 jobs, community leadership, and philanthropic support.
U.S. Sugar gives individuals who are AEST Certified in Agricultural Associate an interview preference. To learn more about careers at U.S. Sugar, click here.
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Industry partners have identified the industry readiness indicators that are measured on the Agriculture certification exam. Based on the industry needs and assessment of each indicator, the number of exam items per area have been determined and are noted on the exam guide. Additionally, where applicable, the industry readiness indicators have been correlated with current educational frameworks.
Exams are delivered online and must be administered by an approved AEST proctor. Candidates have a two-hour window during a single session to complete the exam. Exams are 50 questions in length and include multiple choice options for all items. Candidates are required to achieve a passing score on the exam to earn certification.
The exam guide is designed to assist candidates to prepare to sit for the Agriculture certification exam. It includes information about the exam, exam objectives, recommended references and sample items – all with the intent of helping candidates achieve a passing score. AEST recommends a combination of classroom instruction and self-study to maximize a candidate’s chance of earning industry certification.
AEST provides Knowledge Focus References (KFR) documents that detail specific content on which to focus for questions that may be asked on the exam.