5 Things to Consider When Joining the Cannabis Industry

By Dan Cohn

There’s never been a more exciting time to get involved in the cannabis industry. More states and countries than ever have legalized recreational use for adults and business is booming. It's no wonder interest in the industry is at an all-time high. If you're one of the thousands considering a career in the cannabis industry, here are some important things to keep in mind that will help prepare you for a fulfilling journey.

1. UNDERSTAND THE PLANT

You wouldn’t get a job selling cars if you didn’t know they had tires and a steering wheel. Having a basic knowledge of the plant will get you ahead in your search for cannabis work.

Understand and know what cannabinoids and terpenes are, and how they function in the cannabis plant. You can also learn about growing techniques and methods to get ahead in certain areas of the industry. It will be beneficial for everyone to learn how to read a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from a testing laboratory and a Certificate of Grade (COG) from a certified ICHS grading service. Growers and budtenders especially should have this foundation, but it will also benefit writers covering cannabis topics, doctors prescribing medicinal cannabis, and even advertisers working with cannabis brands. The more you know about the plant, the better decisions you can make in your field of choice.

Most importantly, make sure you maintain a willingness and openness to learn. The cannabis industry is ever-evolving, and with it so does our knowledge base. Stay curious and connected.

2. BE PREPARED TO WORK HARD

Jhavid Mohseni, CEO of Aperon Corporation, says the cannabis industry takes some dedication and determination, as well as a ‘can-do’ attitude and willingness to rise above challenges. He says to focus on solutions and maintain a ‘growth’ mindset.

“People getting involved in a nascent burgeoning industry should be prepared to do what it takes,” says Mohseni. “As an entrepreneur, you’re going to have to be ready to solve problems that shouldn’t exist or wouldn’t in defined established industries. Become an asset to the company and business you’re applying for.” Being successful in the cannabis industry takes hard work, flexibility, and good communication skills.

3. RESPECT THE HISTORY THAT GOT US HERE

Most people in the cannabis industry love cannabis. It was built on the passion and determination of those who fought for its legalization. It emerged from generations of prohibition to become embraced by medical and legislative communities and eventually even pop culture. Building on that legacy and progressing it forward should drive you to contribute in your own way. Representing something that was worth years of trial and determination adds to the benefit of working in this business. When skills combine with passion, happiness is inevitable.

Mohseni says, “The industry is made up of many people with varied backgrounds, all collaborating to establish an industry that is sustainable, equitable, and profitable.”

4. KNOW YOUR PATH

At the end of the day, you should love your job, and more often than not that’s easy to do in this industry! The cannabis industry isn’t just about budtending; there are paths for people from all backgrounds. In this industry you can be so many things:

• Budtender
• Grower
• Producer/Processor
• Broker
• Consultant
• Policymaker
• Patient advocate
• Writer/Editor
• Marketer
• Executive
• Customer service worker
• Content Creator
• Educator
• Laboratory worker
• So much more
  

Playing to your strengths will land you in the perfect position. For those unsure how to transition their preexisting skills into a cannabis-centered career, consider taking a class on the subject.

5. U.S. CITIZENS SHOULD UNDERSTAND FEDERAL REGULATIONS

For aspiring cannabis industry workers specifically in the United States, there are additional considerations. U.S. workers should be aware that federal law still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I drug, miscategorizing it as having a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use. This creates a complex situation where you could be abiding by state regulations but still running afoul of federal law. This federal illegality translates into challenges and risks, such as difficulty securing traditional financing due to banking restrictions and the (unlikely) potential for federal intervention despite state-sanctioned operations.

It's important to have the full picture so that you can choose to embark on your journey in the cannabis industry fully informed and aware of any challenges that may arise.

At the end of the day, there is no secret to success for cannabis professionals, but being authentic and working with integrity will aid you in achieving success.

Dan Cohn

Writer

Dan Cohn is a drummer, audio engineer and music aficionado who enjoys using cannabis to fuel thoughtful conversation, critical listening and relaxing. The first time he made weed brownies, he cut the whole pan into six mega brownies and ate one before a friend's 18th birthday bowling party. He didn't make it to the party.