The Importance of Technology Units on Rural Properties in Brazil

Since 2017, when I created MONAGRI, my goal has always been clear: to teach large farms how to work with technology, and we have been on this journey for approximately 6 years. Many technologies have emerged, many companies have grown and also disappeared, but without a doubt we have had several evolutions in the sector.

Currently, almost all large groups in the state of Mato Grosso have specific people in this sector, which is nothing more than the professional responsible for extracting, processing, and analyzing data from machines, drones, sensors, satellite images, and much more.

The process can begin simply by opening machine data in QGIS, using platforms from companies like AFS Connect (Case IH) or PLM (New Holland), conducting drone flights, generating corn prescriptions with Bayer's Valora using FieldView, monitoring pests and diseases with FarmBox, and even prescribing herbicides with Xarvio. This universe of platforms and possibilities is enormous, and much more is happening out there.

Initially, we saw that starting the project with just one professional was very important; however, today we know that we need more than one professional per farm. Technologies have increased, the demand for professionals has also grown, and when you only have one professional, when they leave, we lose a lot of time redoing what we've built.

In the last survey I conducted last year, Brazil had over 330 Agronomy courses, many of which do not include digital agriculture as a subject in their curriculum. I see this as a great opportunity to help train these professionals. However, in my view, we are already experiencing a shortage of qualified labor in this sector. I know several groups and companies with open positions but without good candidates.

I've traveled to several countries, including the United States, Israel, France, Germany, China, Australia, Spain, England, Portugal, Japan, and others, and I've seen that with the increasing connectivity happening in Brazil, this sector will only grow even more. New professions will emerge, and others will disappear. So I believe it's never too late to reinvent yourself.

In 2023, I will be opening mentoring programs for professionals, students, and even those who want to enter the sector. What I've learned on this journey so far is that "Networking and connections are worth more than money."

For those interested: mauricionicocelli@monagriap.com or via the contact form.

Thanks