At Lakeland College's Student-Managed Farm - Powered by New Holland (SMF), students don't just learn about agriculture - they live it. Across 3,700 acres of rolling Alberta farmland, students take the reins of a commercial-scale operation, balancing the demands of real-world farm management with the rigors of their studies. This unique, hands-on program, powered by a transformative partnership with New Holland Agriculture, exemplifies the college's commitment to experiential learning and preparing students for leadership in Alberta's agricultural sector.
A Unique Model of Student Leadership
Students in Lakeland's crop technology and animal science technology programs step into management roles within the SMF. These roles go far beyond classroom theory. Crop technology students handle areas such as production analysis, financial planning, and marketing, while animal science students manage specialized units, including dairy cattle, bison, equine operations, and purebred beef cattle.
These budding leaders are responsible for real-world decisions that mirror those made by professionals in the industry. From setting budgets and marketing strategies to overseeing calving and crop production, students experience the challenges and rewards of running a modern farm. Their work is not just theoretical; it's practical, demanding, and directly tied to the success of the farm. The program's structure ensures students are deeply engaged in every aspect of farm management, offering an unparalleled opportunity to develop critical skills that will serve them well in their future careers.
Cutting-Edge Equipment for Modern Agriculture
A cornerstone of the Student-Managed Farm is its partnership with New Holland Agriculture. This collaboration, which began in 2011 and was renewed in 2021 through a multi-million-dollar agreement, provides students with access to the latest agricultural equipment and technology. From high-tech tractors equipped with precision farming tools to advanced combines and balers, students work with the kinds of machinery that define modern farming.
This access is invaluable in preparing students for a rapidly evolving industry. Precision agriculture, for instance, allows students to optimize yield while conserving resources, reflecting the industry's shift toward sustainability. Hands-on experience with advanced tools and techniques enables graduates to seamlessly transition into the workforce, equipped to meet the demands of modern agriculture.
A Transformative Partnership
The partnership with New Holland Agriculture is more than a sponsorship - it's a collaboration that benefits both the students and the industry. New Holland gains valuable insights into how the next generation approaches farming, while students gain hands-on experience with industry-leading tools and techniques.
"New Holland's support ensures that our students are learning on the best equipment available," says Lakeland College's President, Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart. "It's an investment in the future of agriculture."
This partnership also symbolizes the importance of public-private collaborations in education. By working together, institutions like Lakeland College and companies like New Holland Agriculture are shaping a more innovative, sustainable, and skilled agricultural workforce.
Real-World Impact
The impact of the Student-Managed Farm extends far beyond the campus. Alumni frequently credit the program with giving them the skills and confidence needed to excel in their careers. Many go on to become leaders in Alberta's agricultural sector, contributing to the province's economic vitality and food security.
The farm's innovative projects, such as the recent addition of a bison herd, further underscore its commitment to staying at the forefront of agricultural education. This new initiative allows students to gain expertise in bison production, marketing, and technological applications, broadening their skill set and understanding of diversified farming practices.
Lakeland College's Student-Managed Farm is more than a learning experience - it's a transformative journey that empowers students to become leaders in agriculture. By combining hands-on management, cutting-edge technology, and a groundbreaking partnership with New Holland Agriculture, the SMF sets a gold standard for agricultural education in Alberta and beyond.
As Alberta faces the challenges of feeding a growing population, programs like the SMF are crucial. They ensure the next generation of agricultural professionals are not only prepared but inspired to lead.
