New Precision Agriculture program aims to build skilled workforce for Atlantic Canada’s growing AgTech sector – Faculty of Agriculture

New Precision Agriculture program aims to build skilled workforce for Atlantic Canada’s growing AgTech sector

Industry-led precision agriculture program equips Canadians with skills to meet growing demand for AgTech professionals

Extended Learning, Dalhousie University Faculty of Agriculture is celebrating the launch of Future Farm: Precision Agriculture Training, funded by Upskill Canada, powered by Palette Skills, and the Government of Canada.

This rapid upskilling program takes an industry-led approach to supporting Canadian workers, training them on the most in-demand skills for today’s job market. This partnership will help workers find new careers by upskilling in agricultural technology in Canada.

“We are thrilled to offer this innovative training program to individuals interested in exploring opportunities in the digital agriculture industry,” says Tracy Kittlilsen, Manager, Extended Learning. “With the rapid adoption of digital technologies in agriculture, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals who can leverage these tools to drive efficiency, sustainability, and productivity. This program provides participants with the introductory knowledge and practical skills needed to enter this exciting and emerging field.”

Future Farm: Precision Agriculture Training will introduce learners to the tools and techniques used in digital and data-driven farming. The program provides foundational knowledge in the use, care, and application of precision agriculture technologies such as imaging, mapping, tracking, robotics, and sensors, with emphasis on their economic and environmental impacts.

The four-week online program will be supplemented with a three-day in-person period at Dalhousie Agricultural Campus where learners will apply their skills through hands-on practice. Learners will also have the opportunity to participate in job readiness training and connect with potential employers through a networking event.

“We are proud to welcome Dalhousie University to the Upskill Canada program, as we expand the impact of rapid upskilling, and open career pathways in Nova Scotia’s vital agriculture and agri-food sector,” said Mark Beckles, CEO of Palette Skills. “Workers who complete this program will have the most current skills, allowing them to support sustainability and innovation as the agricultural industry evolves.”

Through Upskill Canada, launched in November 2023, Palette Skills has supported thousands of workers nationally, who can now access jobs in Canada’s high-growth sectors. With funding from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), Upskill Canada is driving innovation and building Canada’s prosperity.