USDA People Make a Difference

Don Arnette
Area Director
"I work with people at high levels of government but I also get out to talk with people who benefit from the Food Stamp Program. I see first hand the good we're doing. Not only is my job challenging, it is exciting and rewarding."

Mattie Sharpless
Foreign Agricultural Program Administrator
"I wasn't sure what the future held when I got out of college, but I'm glad I chose USDA. I am really proud of my career. I represent my country. That's important to me."

Kelly Yee
Food Program Analyst
"My work has been rewarded with promotions. I'm proud of that. I am also proud that I help school children get what, in many cases, is their only nutritious meal of the day."

Steve Miteff
Agricultural Marketing Analyst
"I've had the chance to visit many parts of the world where U.S. food marketing assistance makes the critical difference."

Our business is agriculture and agriculture is a big business. It is a major factor in the U.S. economy. The U.S. food system contributes more than $625 billion each year - or 20 percent - to our gross national product.

USDA: Careers With a Difference

USDA offers unparalleled career choices in fields such as agricultural business, agricultural commodities, crop insurance administration, crop insurance underwriting, economics, agricultural extension, agricultural management, agricultural marketing, food program management, international trade economics, loan management/finance, and many more.

At USDA, You Can . . .

• Strengthen the farm safety net.
• Provide critical financial assistance to rural America for farming, housing, food, and utilities. 
• Promote international trade of agricultural commodities.
• Safeguard the wholesomeness of our food supply through USDA's food inspection and grading services.
• Help provide food, nutrition, and educational information to Americans in need by working on anti-hunger activities and with the school breakfast and lunch programs, and by helping to increase food rescue and gleaning efforts.
• Evaluate potential business investments and audit expenditures.