FOOD IS THE MOST BASIC OF HUMAN NEEDS so it is no wonder that the food industry is the largest industry in the world. Food production and distribution in the US are dominated by multinational corporations like Kraft, Nestle, Sysco, and General Mills, as well as restaurant chains that circle the globe. The industry employs millions of people, including home economists. These are highly trained professionals who are able to combine their passion for food, knack for science, and creative flair to create food that is delicious, healthy, safe, affordable, and interesting. This is a very diverse field that offers numerous career paths. Home economists conduct research and experiments in labs, cook up new recipes, design and test new kitchen equipment, determine what food policies best address public health and safety, demonstrate cooking techniques, and write about their favorite subject - food. With culinary skills and proper training, these professionals can become test kitchen cooks, research chefs, recipe developers, newspaper columnists, TV cooking show producers, food stylists, or food technologists. Because the food industry is massive, there is also an opportunity to specialize in certain foods or beverages, or specific kinds of employers. There is plenty of opportunity, particularly for those who are innovative and think outside the box. Major food companies, large media outlets, consulting firms, advertising agencies, universities, large restaurant chains, and government agencies are always looking for imaginative home economists. They all offer good salaries and job stability, as well as a chance to achieve great personal and professional satisfaction. Many home economists choose to freelance, obtaining projects through their network of contacts in the industry. For them, the pay is even greater than a salary would be, and the freedom to work when and how they choose more than compensates for the lack of stability. Becoming a home economist requires a college education in most cases. A bachelor's degree in home economics (now commonly known as Family and Consumer Sciences or FCS) is all it takes to qualify for most positions. Some areas of advanced research or teaching at the university level demand graduate degrees. Hands-on experience gives new graduates an advantage when looking for their first jobs, but that experience is easy to get through internships, volunteering, or working part time in any situation that involves food. If you love food, have some basic cooking skills, and want to work in a more relaxed environment than the chaotic atmosphere of a restaurant kitchen, home economics could be the answer. It is a fun, exciting career that can provide a lifetime of pleasure and fulfillment.
