Students – Choose Now
From class to career: what fits you best?
What should you study for a job in dairy?
Your favourite school subjects can lead to real jobs in the dairy industry, jobs that match your interests, skills, and the things you’re already good at. Whether you’re into science, tech, business, or being outdoors, there’s a pathway that starts with the choices you’re making now. Explore where each subject could take you and how it connects to exciting roles helping shape the future of food, farming, and sustainability.
Choose now for choice later
Connect what you’re learning now to future careers in the dairy industry.
Subject choices aren’t something you have to figure out alone. They’re the first steps toward shaping your future. Talk with your teachers, parents, and caregivers about what excites you, what you're curious about, and where those interests might lead. Together, you can explore subjects that open doors to careers you may not have even heard of yet. With the right support and a bit of direction now, you can build a future that reflects who you are and what matters most to you.
Check out each of the subjects below and see what you career could look like:
Real-life inspiration
Murihiku Martell
Mechanical engineering apprentice
Murihiku finds her fit in mechanical engineering
Discovering a hands-on path
Murihiku is a second-year mechanical engineering apprentice at Fonterra’s Hotapu site. After starting her career in dairy processing, she discovered a passion for hands-on work and problem-solving, wanting to understand how everything works behind the scenes.
Building skills on the tools
In her role, Murihiku helps maintain and repair essential plant equipment that keeps the site running smoothly. Each day brings something different, and Murihiku enjoys learning from experienced tradespeople while combining practical, on-the-job experience with formal study and training.
A pathway full of possibility
Dairy wasn’t something Murihiku initially considered at school, but she now sees the industry as full of opportunity. She’s proud of her resilience, values continuous learning, and encourages young people to explore dairy careers and give new pathways a go. “The longer I've stayed here, the more I can see where your career could go. The opportunities, I think, just feel endless.”
Test your smarts, learn with Milkie
Jump straight into the quiz and see how much you really know about the world of dairy. It’s a quick, fun way to test your smarts—and discover something new along the way.
More to come soon… this is just the beginning!
Why is it helpful for you to know which school subjects you are good at or enjoy?
Which of these options is NOT linked to a career in the dairy industry?
