Lethbridge Polytechnic, Southern Alberta Collegiate Institute hosting career exploration event for young women

Nov. 21, 2024 – Girls from across southern Alberta will have a chance to explore the variety of potential careers in the agriculture sector when they attend Harvesting Ambitions: Young Women in Agriculture today at Lethbridge Polytechnic.

This student-centred career showcase, organized by Southern Alberta Collegiate Institute, is an interactive, full-day session that includes women working in agriculture presenting the many different career paths available.

The Southern Alberta Collegiate Institute is a unique partnership of seven school divisions, Lethbridge Polytechnic, and two non-profit organizations, which allow middle and high school students across southern Alberta to explore career pathways in sectors critical to the regional economy.

“Southern Alberta’s agriculture industry is more than just farming and ranching - it’s an economic powerhouse. It has all kinds of professionals who work together to keep our friends, family and neighbours fed,” said Lori Adamson, junior high program teacher with the collegiate. “Our goal is to show these young women the value of a career in agriculture. Whether you’re interested in plant chemistry, environmental sciences or running the business side of an operation, agriculture has something for everyone.”

This one-day career exploration event will welcome nearly 80 young women in grades 7 through 9 from school divisions across southern Alberta. Students will experience working in agriculture through interactive spaces that teach entomology, entrepreneurship and plant physiology, an engaging panel discussion with women leaders from the industry, and rotating workshops that teach about the plants, bugs, mushrooms and animals that comprise our agricultural systems. These hands-on experiences will give students valuable insights to help form their career decisions.

"There has never been a better time for women to lead in agriculture,” says Kaylee Day Chief, director of sales with AdvancedAg and featured panel member. “In my role, I see firsthand how women are driving innovation and sustainability in the industry. Events like Harvesting Ambitions are vital in inspiring young women to step into this space and transform the future of agriculture."

Harvesting Ambitions: Young Women in Ag is part of the collegiate’s efforts to providing hands-on career experiences in agriculture, trades and healthcare for middle-school students. These experiential sessions are intended to inspire future thinking, prepare students for successful transitions after high school, and equip them with the skills, knowledge and confidence to thrive in their chosen careers.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer these types of engaging programs for young people,” said Peter Gallagher, junior high program teacher at Southern Alberta Collegiate Institute. “Career exploration, project-based learning and early networking are essential for students considering their future.”

To learn more about the collegiate, visit southernalbertacollegiateinstitute.ca.

To learn more about the variety of agriculture programs offered at Lethbridge Polytechnic, visit: lethpolytech.ca/programs-and-courses/find-your-focus/agriculture.