Growing a Career in Agriculture

Corteva Agriscience thrives on its commitment to growing progress. Part of the company’s mission is to develop young and upcoming talent in the agriculture industry. To make sure Corteva lives up to its promise, it formalized its extensive, and successful, Associate Territory Manager (ATM) program. The ATM program is a 12 to 24-month paid training initiative that prepares participants to become successful district sales managers.

“As a former graduate of the Associate Territory Manager program, I can personally attest that the training and mentorship have strengthened and improved my career,” says Dairyland Seed General Manager Chris Pritchett.

Dairyland Seed hopes to welcome an ATM candidate in the summer of 2026. This aligns with Dairyland Seed’s commitment to delivering products that outperform, with better access to agribusiness professionals, in order to maintain our 117-year pedigree for excellence. As Dairyland Seed continues to grow, it will be important to welcome and mentor the next generation of seed industry professionals.

Liz Yust, Corteva’s U.S. Sales Excellence Manager for Multi-Channel Seed & Specialty Herbicides, says, “We’ve identified around 25 essential skills necessary for running a successful sales territory, ranging from sales techniques and time management to conflict resolution and agronomy fundamentals.”

This nation-wide program starts with a recruiting phase that begins in August and ends with offers in early spring. Most applicants will be former members of the Corteva Internship Program; however, that is not a requirement. To apply, candidates must have a four-year degree with a GPA higher than 3.0. Ideal candidates are flexible and adaptable to new environments. They are then embedded in the territories they are assigned.

“Adaptability and proactivity are crucial,” Yust emphasized. “We’re looking for individuals who can thrive when moved from their hometowns to new environments.”

Participants focus on understanding their assigned territories and business models as well as a solid agronomic foundation. A sales supervisor, a day-to-day mentor, and the sales excellence manager support each ATM. This team ensures that ATMs are on track with their development and provides regular feedback and support. After the initial period, ATMs engage in real-world projects.

“We want to ensure that the projects benefit both the development of the participant as well as the business and provide actionable results for our customers,” says Yust.

The ATM program is an excellent opportunity for future careers within Corteva Agriscience and Dairyland Seed. Successful ATMs primarily move into district manager roles, although some have transitioned into other areas within the company as well.

“Once you’re in, there are numerous opportunities within Corteva,” Yust explained. “The beauty of being employed at Corteva Agriscience is the breadth of our business.”

Encourage graduate and undergraduate students to apply for internship and career listings at Corteva.com.