As farmers and ranchers from across Western Canada showcased the best of the best in Alberta’s largest beef cattle show Saturday, as part of Farmfair International, not far away — in another area inside Edmonton’s Expo Center — dozens of youth from across the province the opportunity to learn about a career in the agricultural industry.
“We are holding an event for the first time. It’s called Discover Your Future and it’s a way to bring youth together with potential employers,” said Patty Milligan, agricultural education specialist at Explore Edmonton.
Around a hundred young people attended the job fair and were able to obtain information and make contact with 15 industry organisations.
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“There’s a career booth just for women in trades which is really cool and interesting to check out because I really hadn’t heard of them until today,” said fair attendee Grace Scheler.
The 16-year-old Scheler traveled from the town of Hannah southeast of Red Deer just for the fair.
“It opens my eyes to what options I have in the future,” Scheler said.
Farmer and parent of four, Adele Walsh also traveled several hours from northern Alberta hoping to get her kids interested.
“It is increasingly difficult to attract children to continue working on the farm or to work in the agricultural industry. So something like this is a great spotlight for kids to see that may be connected to the farm, but is not directly a position on the farm,” said Walsh.
Horse Racing Alberta is one of the organizations trying to recruit people.
Dawson Guhle with the organization, said that since the pandemic, the industry has really struggled to find workers.
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“We definitely need a younger generation and we need more exposure. I think those are two areas we need to grow,” Guhle said.
He said that while it is difficult to find new staff members, a career in the agricultural industry can be a fulfilling career.
“It can definitely be intimidating and I think other careers can be accessible, but you know it’s one of those types of careers that is a passion job,” Guhle said.
A passion for animals and the industry has led many young people looking for future opportunities.
“I don’t want this industry to die because it’s such an important part of this country and our life,” Scheler said.
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