Training the next generation of Agriculture Technicians

Saskatchewan high school students are learning more about the Agricultural Technician Program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic in Saskatoon, Sask. this week.

The one-day ‘boot camp’ is part of the Agricultural Equipment Technicians or Parts Technician courses offered through the Saskatchewan Distance Learning Centre. Roughly 100 students from dozens of rural high schools are enrolled. The course also includes 50 hours of online learning and 50 hours of work placement at a farm equipment dealership.

Saskatchewan Distance Learning Centre CEO Darren Gasper said there are many career opportunities ranging from technicians, parts, and sales that are close home for many students.

“It’s really exposing them to a fantastic career that’s often right in their local community. If you think of how broad Saskatchewan is, it’s really rewarding to see kids find a great career locally,” Gasper said. “When we think about the viability of our small towns, this is a great program.”