Agriculture student Adam Lockwood on starting his working life in salad production, his plans for future travels and why Kent's climate is the best
Bright Young Thing: Kent’s Adam Lockwood
Agriculture student Adam Lockwood on starting his working life in salad production, his plans for future travels and why Kent’s climate is the best
Tell us about yourself
My name is Adam Lockwood, I’m 21 and currently living in Kings Hill. I was born and raised on a small family farm in a village near Newark in Nottinghamshire. After finishing school, I continued my education and completed my A-levels in Music, Music Technology and Geography. I then decided to take a gap year, and worked full time for half the year in agricultural-related jobs, which included working on a local arable farm and assisting at an agricultural machinery merchants. For the second half of the year I worked abroad on a large-scale farm in Alberta, Canada. I had the opportunity to travel and visit many places during my stay and the whole experience was both enjoyable and worthwhile. On my return, I began studying a BSc (Hons) International Agriculture degree at the University of Greenwich, based at Hadlow College.
What are you doing now?
I have recently completed my BSc (Hons) International Agriculture degree and I am currently awaiting my results for my final-year examinations, which will determine my overall grade! I am now working for L.J Betts Ltd, a local salad producer based in Offham. I have been offered a managerial role, focusing on the production of the Baby Leaf Lettuce, which is an expanding side of the business. I am very excited about this role and I look forward to the challenges that it will bring, as I have had no prior experience with salad production.
What are your ambitions for the future?
In terms of my career, I would like to become involved with agricultural sales and eventually manage my own business within the sector. However, this is a long-term goal of mine! Having enjoyed my studies, I would like to complete a Masters in an agricultural-related business subject. I feel this would benefit me and assist in achieving my future goals. In the shorter term, I aim to go travelling while I am still young, which is something that I have always enjoyed. I have plans to travel to Africa during the winter months and aim to hopefully return to Canada at some point.
What’s best thing about Kent?
The best thing about living in Kent would have to be the sunshine! Having been deprived in Nottinghamshire, it is a real pleasure to be able to enjoy it! Seriously, I like Kent because of the easy access to London and the short distance from many great seaside towns, which is something I have not had before in the East Midlands.
Your hobbies and interests?
I really enjoy sports, in particular golf and squash. I also love watching and following football. Another hobby of mine is playing the saxophone, which I have been doing for many years now.
The last book you read?
Sadly, I don’t manage to find time to read anywhere near as much as I would like; however I recently read a book on the topic of global trade and agricultural development called The global food economy; the battle for the future of farming. Yes, I know: sad! Nevertheless, it made a very interesting read.
