​Last week I had the privilege of attending the Greater Lincolnshire Forum for Agriculture and Horticulture at Riseholme College. The Forum is designed to bring together farmers, businesses, and education providers to share ideas and explore opportunities for growth in the sector. As someone working in the Agriculture recruitment sector, I went to better understand the challenges and innovations shaping agriculture, and how people will continue to play a central role in its future.

What really stood out to me was the cutting-edge research and technology being showcased at Riseholme. From robots that can tend to strawberry crops, to automatic mushroom and broccoli pickers, soil pH testing robots and the UK’s first geothermal glasshouse, it’s clear that automation is no longer a distant idea but a reality that’s transforming how food is produced. AI was a big topic of discussion too, where the consensus was that AI technology should be used as a decision-making tool to improve efficiency for people.

 That said, what struck me most was the balance between human skill and automation. Machines can take on repetitive or labour-intensive tasks, but it’s people, with their adaptability, problem-solving, and creativity, who drive innovation forward and ensure these technologies deliver real value on the ground.

The Forum also highlighted the importance of partnerships between industry, universities, and research institutions. By working together, they can translate research into practical solutions, support businesses with knowledge and tools, and ultimately make the sector more resilient and competitive. 

Events like this matter because they spark collaboration, give businesses a platform to share challenges, and inspire new ways of thinking about the future of farming and food production. 

I came away with a deeper appreciation for the sector’s drive to innovate while keeping people at the heart of its progress, and for the people passionate about the industry to continue flying the flag. Exciting times ahead for Greater Lincolnshire’s agri-food community!

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