Name: James Bogue

County: Cavan

I enjoy working in an environment where performance results can be improved due to new technologies, practices or genetics. From the course I found that the principles of farm administration and finance very helpful as I developed my role in managing the pig unit. We need to keep detailed accounts and complete feasibility study plans in the pig business.

We have just completed the expansion of the pig business so my immediate goal is to consolidate and continue to improve performance in the unit through improvements in breeding and nutrition.

I would advise young people who hope to work in the farming sector to participate in the available Teagasc courses before commencing their careers. My three brothers also completed the “Green Cert” course in Ballyhaise and are now involved in our home farm along with a number of other graduates of Teagasc Ballyhaise who are employed on our farm and feed mill.

Even though I had a lot of practical experience from my home farm I found that this was a great opportunity to go away and learn different ways of doing things. The host farmer was a very good manager and I picked up some good management practices from him during the 12 weeks. Working for a different employer gave me valuable experience of employment which has been useful now that I am managing staff on my own unit.

Teagasc