By: Michael Bennett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Ridgetown Independent News
Ridgetown District High School students were joined by fellow students from across Chatham-Kent at the Agriculture Career Day on Tuesday, Nov. 18, at the University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus.
The event gave students the chance to explore the many careers available in the agricultural industry and to connect with employers.
The students also experienced new technology driving today’s agri-food industry, as they were treated to hands-on ag-robotics demonstrations that showed how cutting-edge robotics and automation are transforming agriculture.
Several agribusinesses set up booths and gave presentations to allow students to meet local employers and industry leaders, to explore career pathways and training opportunities.
There were also networking opportunities to connect students with experts and organizations who could help them launch their future in agriculture.
“Events like Agriculture Career Day are an important way to build awareness of workforce needs and help students stay connected to local employment opportunities,” said Teresa Fysh, Chatham-Kent Talent Attraction and Retention Coordinator. “By connecting education and industry, we’re helping students see a strong future for themselves right here in Chatham-Kent.”
Sean Columbus, Economic Development Officer, said innovation is at the core of Chatham-Kent’s agri-food sector.
“Events like Agriculture Career Day showcase how new ideas and technologies are shaping opportunities for students and employers alike,” Columbus said.
Employers and organizations that participated included The Andersons, Peeters Mushroom Farm, Grodan, Drone Spray Canada, Haggerty Creek Ltd., Haggerty AgRobotics, ArRobotics WG, AgScape, Huron Tractor, Southpoint Equipment, Dairy Farmers of Ontario, Devolder Farms, Central Ontario FS (Growmark Inc), Southwest Agromart, PureFlavor, Southwest Apprenticeship Network, Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce and CK Jobs.
Agriculture Career Day was organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, the University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus, and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent in collaboration with local employers and educators.
The initiative was coordinated by the CK Job Preparation Action Team, which brought together local school boards, post-secondary institutions, and municipal partners to connect education and industry. The team focused on highlighting career opportunities, encouraging hands-on learning, and supporting workforce development across Chatham-Kent.
