I read with great interest a recent story in the Epoch Times entitled “Agriculture is the Solution for Gen Z” written by Jay Ryan. (1) The article responds to why socialism seems like faith to a generation seeking meaning. Many Gen Z individuals are soul searching today and embracing socialism to find meaning in today’s world. This crossroads provides a significant opportunity for a teaching moment for us all. Gen Z, millennials, and high school students are most conscious about their health and wellness including the importance of eating fresh versus mega processed foods. Why not take the time to describe the opportunities and impact of our local food and agriculture economy in West Michigan and how Gen Z and millennials can become more engaged?

Here are some steps that can be taken for high school and other students, Gen Z, millennials, and young professionals:

• Explain the impact of processed versus fresh food

Highly processed foods can be less expensive, but are generally low in nutrients, high in additives, and many times contain artificial flavors and colors. They are designed for convenience, not for quality or health, and are usually high in sugar and fat content. Examples include snacks, chips, cookies, frozen pizza, and other ready-to-cook meals. Fresh local food is rich in vitamins, nutrients, and minerals and contains minimum harmful ingredients. It supports a healthy lifestyle and is typically fresher and more flavorful but can be more expensive. Many key fruits and vegetables are grown in West Michigan.

• Create greater awareness about our local food economy in Michigan

The agricultural and food economy contributes ~$125B to the overall Michigan economy, employing ~1.25 MM direct and indirect workers. It represents ~17% of Michigan manufacturing employment. Michigan is one of the most diverse food producing states in the nation with over 300 different commodities with exports totaling nearly $3B annually. For example, Michigan ranks #1 in tart cherry, asparagus, and black bean production; #2 in apples; and #4 in blueberries. There are ~2000 food and ag companies in Michigan. Food companies such as Gerber and Kellogg both purchase key raw materials and ingredients from local farmers that help bolster the agricultural and food economy.

• Provide the opportunity for students and young professionals to grow their own food

Many schools, colleges, and universities now offer the opportunity for students to grow their own food. Michigan State University in Lansing has its own farm that supplies food for the university. Grand Valley State University (GVSU) on its Allendale Michigan campus, has the Sustainable Agriculture Project. GVSU students can grow their own food through raised beds as well as in hoophouses. Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) food shares are available throughout the summer and fall months for weekly available fresh local produce. There is also an apiary for honey production.

• Offer agricultural and food internships and apprenticeships in the marketplace

Many of the larger ag and food related firms offer summer internship programs. These firms represent farm operations, food processing, food manufacturing, food warehousing and distribution, food wholesale, and food retail outlets across the supply chain. There is also a recognized food labor shortage in West Michigan which provides an opportunity for small to medium size firms to expand food internship and apprenticeship programs to attract interest and address labor and seasonal demand issues.

• Visit and shop at local farmers markets

I am always fascinated by the attraction to local farmers markets in the West Michigan area. They provide a great learning experience for everyone including families and children as local farmers and craft artisans provide local produce and crafts on a weekly basis. The Fulton Street Market (www.fultonstreetmarket.org) in Grand Rapids has connected farmers, food creators, and local artists to the community for over 100 years! The Muskegon Farmers Market (www.muskegonfarmersmarket.com) is the second largest farmers market in the state yet has a small town vibe with a great variety of produce.

• Advance careers in food systems and agriculture

Students in high school and college can pursue many career paths in agriculture, food systems, and related business areas. Youth can gain great experience through 4-H programs in their counties. (www.4hfdtn.org) College students can obtain degrees and certificates in a number of ag agricultural and food related areas of interest. Michigan State University (www.msu.edu) offers 49 agriculture degree programs in agriculture, natural resources, plant, animal, soil, food, forestry, wildlife, and related fields. Certificates are of growing interest to both students and employers as they offer specific skillets. For example, a student could graduate from Grand Valley State University (www.gvsu.edu) with a Bachelor of Arts degree with a certificate in food systems.

On a grander scale, there are a number of benefits from using this strategic focus and approach to agriculture and the food economy in West Michigan.

• Appreciation for the value of hard work. Farm labor helps you know where food comes from and contributes to feeding the world. There is also great pride in doing an honest day’s work. You also develop great skills in discipline, grit, reliability, flexibility, and team building that you can carry anywhere in your career. And you are connected to the local community with your work.
• Framework for living a purposeful life. The objectives of agriculture are to sustain human life, generate natural resources, develop agricultural and food products, and grow the economy. Agriculture is closely tied to local communities and the specific crops, fruits, and vegetables that are grown. Deleterious social and environmental impact can easily be seen with communities and companies that do not exhibit good ethical and stewardship practices. Agriculture supports a purposeful and quality of life for individuals and communities.
• Desire for career development in food systems and agriculture. Studying agriculture will develop solutions to global food security issues. It will also support the use of advanced technologies, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) that will improve productivity and efficiency. Best practices in environmental sustainability and the circular and the regenerative economy are needed long term. And the importance of health and nutrition has never been greater.
• Enhancement of the talent pipeline for the West Michigan agriculture and food economy. West Michigan has faced significant farm labor issues in recent years where the cost of labor can be greater than 50% of total crop expenses, such as with Michigan apples. There have been many challenges with the use of the H2-A temporary agriculture program for foreign workers. Additional focus needs to be communicated regarding on demand labor opportunities and available services. Moreover, some family farms are beginning to sell off or consolidate with others due to leadership and economic concerns. A well-developed talent pipeline from early youth through young professionals needs to be created to sustain the ag and food economy.

Although the challenges are there, West Michigan can address the ag and food industry issues through leadership and cooperation across public and private sector relationships. This concerns require the implementation of effective solutions rather than political disagreements.

“Farming is not a job; it is a way of life”!- Anonymous

Resources:

(1) Agriculture is the Solution for Gen Z,” Jay Ryan, The Epoch Times, www.theepochtimes.com

(2) Agriculture Work Is Never Easy But Here is Why It Is Incredibly Rewarding, www.harvestaff.com

(3) Why Is Agriculture Important? Understanding Its Key Benefits and Environmental Impact, www.unity.edu

(4) Top 7 Reasons to Study Agriculture, www.thesiliconereview.com

All the best on your sustainability journey!

Norman Christopher

January 2026