OCTOBER 20259At every phase of the system build-out, pilot properties provided critical feedback and conducted testing. This feedback-driven approach reinforced the value of engaging a review committee and pilot group to strengthen system effectiveness.The WEF Future of Jobs Report echoes this sentiment. Below are key skills that food scientists and engineers must develop to thrive in this evolving landscape.Skill #1: Analytical Thinking & Technological LiteracyInsight: AI literacy and data analytics are no longer optional but essential.So What? Develop AI literacy and leverage data-driven tools to optimize food formulations, enhance quality control, and minimize supply chain losses. Currently, 30% of the food we produce is lost annually, while 30% of the world's population is food insecure!Skill #2: Resilience, Flexibility, and AgilityInsight: Economic and geopolitical disruptions demand adaptability.So What? Develop a problem-solving mindset in everything from product development to sustainability measures. Use scenario-based strategic approaches to anticipate change and pivot effectively.Skill #3: Creative Problem-Solving and InnovationInsight: Human creativity will become a key differentiator as robotics and AI automate routine tasks.So What? Challenge conventional food processes. Could precision fermentation revolutionize alternative protein production? Could innovative packaging extend shelf life while reducing waste? Innovation in food science must drive real-world impact.Skill #4: Leadership and InfluenceInsight: Half of surveyed employers rate leadership and influence as crucial for transformation.So What? Scientists often focus on the what and overlook the why, missing the power of storytelling. Without compelling narratives, our science remains too `dry' to inspire action. We must communicate the why behind breakthrough technologies to drive meaningful change.Skill #5: Systems ThinkingInsight: Climate change mitigation is a leading transformative trend.So What? Adopt an end-to-end (E2E) systems thinking approach. Recognize how food production, processing, distribution, and packaging decisions impact sustainability and advocate for holistic strategies that drive systemic change.Takeaway #3: The Need for Highly Skilled and Purpose-Driven Food Scientists and EngineersThe Future of Jobs Report 2025 highlights that future professionals will require broader expertise, adaptability, and a commitment to driving meaningful change. Simply having a degree or technical knowledge is no longer enough. The food system is transforming, and we need purpose-driven food scientists and engineers to lead this transformation.Beyond Technical Skills: Mission-Driven Scientists and EngineersThe report emphasizes that reskilling and upskilling will be essential for staying relevant, focusing on sustainability, digitization, and cross-disciplinary knowledge. By 2030, 39% of core worker skills will change, and employers will invest in talent who can define and articulate a vision, drive collaboration, and lead transformation efforts.This is a defining moment for food professionals. We must elevate our roles from technical problem solvers to strategic transformers. Success will require enhancing our skill set and being guided by a mission to create a sustainable, efficient, and innovative food system.So What?· Learn beyond traditional food science--explore AI-powered supply chains, sustainable packaging, and food innovation.· Think in systems, not silos--integrate sustainability, technology, and advocacy into holistic solutions.· Define your purpose and advocate for it. As the proverb says: "Don't curse the dark, light a candle."Conclusion: An Invitation-to-ActionThe WEF Future of Jobs Report clarifies that massive shifts are underway. The demand for green and digital skills aligns perfectly with the evolving role of food scientists and engineers, and we are on the brink of significant job opportunities.I invite you to leverage this moment to drive meaningful change in our global food system. Food is essential, a human right, and poetically magical. As food professionals, we have the power and responsibility to ensure that it is sustainable, nourishing, and innovative for future generations.The future of food depends on top talent, purpose-driven scientists, and engineers who see their work as more than a job but a mission. Being a food scientist is insufficient--we must be innovators, trailblazers, and changemakers. And I know we will be!
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