Farmers and ag industry reps can now apply to enhance their leadership skills
By Jennifer Jackson
The Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) is now accepting applications for Class 17 of the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP).
The ROI accepts applicants from every sector of Ontario’s agriculture industry. While the ROI fills one third of the class positions with farmers, remaining applicants are from government, finance, insurance, crop inputs, and various other agriculture sectors.
“AALP was put in place to provide current and emerging leaders with the skills, knowledge, broad perspective and positive attitude required to be effective leaders now and into the future,” says Rob Black, chief executive officer of ROI.
“Through a series of seminars, study tours, self-directed learning and distance education, AALP prepares leaders to help shape the future of their businesses, organizations and communities.”
According to Black, class members will become more effective leaders through:
- Experience with best leadership practices
- Increasing knowledge of the agri-food industry globally
- Networking with provincial, national, and international leaders and peers
- Gaining self-confidence and improving positive attitudes for the future.
AALP “is designed to provide current and emerging leaders in Ontario’s agriculture and agri-food sectors and rural communities the opportunity to gain skills, knowledge and an understanding of the forces shaping agriculture and rural Ontario,” says Black.
The program is 19 months long. Applicants have until March 17, 2017 to apply, and will be interviewed and notified on status by June 2017.
For more information on the program, visit the ROI website: http://www.ruralontarioinstitute.ca/aalp/