Speakers

Cultivating careers: Ag careers showcase
Future Fresh: Exploring Dynamic Careers in Australia's Growing Fruit and Vegetable Industry

With Australia’s horticulture sector now valued at a record-breaking $17 billion and fresh produce exports nearing $3 billion, there’s never been a more exciting time to explore careers in fruits and vegetables. This session will unpack the diverse and evolving opportunities across the fresh produce supply chain — from sustainable farming and agronomy to logistics, food technology, retail, marketing, and export management. As berries, bananas, citrus, and other high-value crops drive industry growth, we’ll highlight the skills and pathways needed to meet the demand for a new generation of professionals. Whether you’re a student, educator, or career advisor, join us to discover how fresh produce is not only feeding the nation but shaping rewarding, future-focused careers in agriculture and beyond.

About Mark

Mark Pullin is the General Manager of VEG Education, a nationally recognised training organisation at the forefront of food and fibre education. With over 25 years of experience in education, learning and development, and organisational transformation, Mark brings a unique blend of industry insight and instructional innovation to the fresh produce sector. Under his leadership, VEG Education was awarded the 2024 Excellence in Horticulture - Muirs Community Stewardship Award and is a proud finalist for the 2025 RTO Provider of the Year at the APAC Learning Impact Awards.

Mark’s work is grounded in a passion for driving real-world outcomes across the horticulture supply chain. He has led collaborations with Hort Innovation, AUSVEG, and the Victorian Farmers Federation, designing strategic education and workforce development programs that meet the evolving needs of growers, suppliers, and agribusinesses. Through VEG Education, he is helping shape the future of the industry - delivering high-impact, practical learning that builds capability, supports sustainability, and attracts the next generation of professionals to careers in fresh produce.