Training the next generation of Agriculture Technicians

Dec 08, 2023

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.”

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Video: California Farm Bureau 2025 Farm Dog of the Year Contest Winner - Willy - CAFB 107th Annual Meeting

Meet Willy: California Farm Bureau’s 2025 Farm Dog of the Year!

We’re excited to introduce Willy, a miniature long-haired dachshund with a big heart and even bigger courage, and the Grand Prize winner of this year’s Farm Dog of the Year Contest!

Willy may be small, but he’s become an indispensable partner on owner Marshal Hagedorn’s forestry and cattle operations in Shasta, Tehama, and Siskiyou counties. Adopted in 2023, he quickly found his place on the ranch, helping manage critters, tagging along for long days in the woods, and offering unwavering companionship during demanding logging work.

Willy has even taken naturally to moving cattle, surprising calves (and more than a few full-grown cows!) with his burst of energy from the tall grass. As Marshal put it: “He goes with me everywhere every single day.”

Congratulations to Willy and his family, a perfect example of how every good farm dog, no matter the size, helps keep California agriculture running strong.