Canada career month highlights agriculture opportunities for youth

As November marks Canada Career Month, Agriculture in the Classroom Canada (AITC-C) and its ten provincial partners are thrilled to announce a series of innovative career programs aimed at connecting youth with the diverse opportunities within the agriculture and agri-food sector.

As those in the industry are well aware, agriculture today is far more than traditional farming. It encompasses a wide range of fields including technology, environmental science, business, engineering, and food production. These programs are designed to enhance career literacy among young Canadians, opening doors to future careers and highlighting the vast potential within the agriculture sector.

Recent data from the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) underscores the importance of this initiative, including:

• Approximately 2.5 million Canadians are employed in agriculture and agri-food
• The sector contributes over $130 billion to Canada’s GDP, making it one of the country’s largest industries
• By 2029, the industry will need over 60,000 new workers due to retirement and growth.

Luree Williamson, Acting Executive Director of AITC-C, emphasizes the programs goals.

“Our programs are designed to showcase the vast array of career opportunities within agriculture and agri-food. By engaging youth and providing them with the knowledge and skills they need, we can inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders and innovators.”

This collaborative career program aims to equip students with essential skills and insights, helping them explore potential pathways in agriculture. Through interactive workshops, resources, and hands-on experiences, students gain a deeper understanding of the critical roles agriculture plays in everyday life and the career possibilities it offers.

This Canada Career Month, AITC-C invites educators, students, and parents to explore the myriad of career options available within the agriculture and agri-food sector.

For more information, click here.