The Red Sofa Hotseat: Universities of applied sciences at Agritechnica 2015

German universities of applied sciences offering agriculture and agricultural engineering courses will be introducing themselves to visitors of Agritechnica 2015 in Hannover, the largest agricultural exhibition in the world, from 10 to 15 November 2015. This exhibition represents a fantastic opportunity for students to meet and greet leading figures in the agricultural engineering sector. The universities are gathered in a joint booth, which features a ‘hotseat’ in the form of a red sofa, where various representatives from leading companies and organisations in the agricultural sector will participate each day in three Q-and-A sessions with students. Each 15 minute interview will examine what employers expect from job candidates, the industry’s perspectives for new graduates, and general tips for finding a career in the booming industry of agriculture. Agricultural representatives from the German government will also take questions about perspectives and opportunities for graduates in the public sector. The joint booth is located in Hall P 35.

The ‘red sofa’ concept first began in 2010 at the Eurotier exhibition, which is held in alternating years from Agritechnica. At that time, the participating universities of applied sciences developed a large, transparent and minimalist booth concept in order to present themselves effectively, and a red sofa was chosen as the dynamic centrepiece of the booth. The concept has enjoyed positive resonance from both visitors and the media, and will continue to be developed and refined for future agricultural exhibitions.