Agrii Agronomist Wins 2025 Barrie Orme Shield

Agrii development agronomist Luke Mills has been awarded the 2025 Barrie Orme Shield, recognising outstanding achievement in the BASIS Certificate in Crop Protection (Agriculture) examination. 

Sponsored by BASF, the annual award celebrates excellence among the next generation of agronomy professionals.

Luke completed his BASIS training under the guidance of Agrii agronomist James Christian-Ilett and has demonstrated exceptional commitment to developing his technical expertise and practical knowledge.

The 2025 runner-up was Lucy Jackson of Defra, recognised for her strong performance in the BASIS Horticulture course and her contribution to plant health and pest management.

After graduating from Harper Adams University with a BSc (Hons) in Agriculture with Crop Management, Luke gained valuable experience working on arable farms before joining Agrii in 2024. He now supports growers across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire, helping them optimise crop performance while continuing to build his agronomy expertise and customer relationships.

As part of his professional development, Luke completed the BASIS Certificate in Crop Protection to strengthen his understanding of integrated pest management (IPM), crop production and the wider technical principles that underpin effective agronomy advice.

Commenting on the award, Luke said:

"I’m incredibly proud to receive the Barrie Orme Shield. Studying for the BASIS Certificate in Crop Protection has broadened my technical knowledge and strengthened my understanding of the challenges growers face. The qualification has been invaluable in supporting my day-to-day role and helping me provide practical, informed advice to farmers."

Joel Johnson, Regional Business Director at BASF, added:

"The Barrie Orme Shield recognises individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to professional development and technical excellence. We are delighted to congratulate Luke on this well-deserved achievement and look forward to seeing his continued contribution to the industry."

Luke's award continues Agrii's recent success in the prestigious competition, following Amy Watkins' Barrie Orme Shield win in 2024. Securing the award in consecutive years reflects the depth of talent within the business and Agrii's ongoing investment in developing technically skilled agronomists to support UK growers.