Northwestern Polytechnic is having a bumper year with three new program announcements in as many months, including a one-of-a-kind program that promises to leave a positive imprint in Alberta's growing communities.
With an anticipated start date of November 2024, the latest offering is a two-year Agriculture Operations diploma that will build on the Polytechnic's roots in Fairview and provide quality training for next generation agriculture professionals.
"Agriculture is a time-honoured profession that is transforming at an impressive rate with the benefit of technological advances and process improvements," says NWP President and CEO, Dr. Vanessa Sheane. "We are looking forward to equipping graduates with skills for modern agriculture and farm operations, and to helping address the workforce challenges being felt across our signature industries."
In addition to having been developed with input from industry partners, NWP's new diploma includes two extensive work terms where students will have the opportunity to develop practical skills alongside experienced growers, animal handlers, and agriculture professionals.
The program will provide a solid foundation in the operation and maintenance of equipment, teamwork and leadership, hauling and transporting grains/livestock, evolving technology and industry trends, productivity and ethical land/animal practices, and farm safety.
"Our new diploma pathway provides a great balance of theoretical and practical knowledge for aspiring grain and livestock professionals," says Dr. Brian Redmond, Dean of Applied Science and Technology. "We recognize the significant opportunity for impact locally and are committed to working with our partners on productive solutions in this space."
Applications for NWP's Agriculture Operations diploma will open shortly. In the meantime, prospective students are encouraged to visit NWP.me/Agriculture for more information and to register their interest in the program.
