Agriculture’s success depends on an INFORMED PUBLIC AND A STRONG WORKFORCE — YET MANY STUDENTS NEVER LEARN ABOUT THE INDUSTRY THAT
FEEDS THEM.
AITC-M is changing that.
Through the Power of Partnership, we bridge the gap between industry and classrooms, helping students see agriculture as a world of opportunity. Our programs provide hands-on learning, introduce real career pathways,
and build industry resilience by ensuring the next generation understands their impact on agriculture.
In 2024, we grew stronger than ever thanks to partners, reaching more schools, more teachers, and more students across Manitoba. By expanding our reach and deepening engagement, we are future-proofing agriculture in an uncertain world.
With your support, we’re closing the knowledge gap, inspiring future leaders, and ensuring agriculture remains
a vital part of education.
This report shares the stories, successes, and impact we’ve achieved together.
A Message from Our Leadership
Agriculture thrives on resilience, innovation, and partnership—three values that are also at the heart of your support.
As the agriculture industry faces labour shortages, public trust challenges, and a changing economic and political landscape, one truth remains: a stronger future begins in the classroom. The next generation of voters, consumers, and industry leaders must understand and value agriculture—because the future of the industry depends on it.
But industry leaders can’t always tell this story to students directly. You make it possible for us to do that.
In 2024, your generosity helped launch the development of a strategic Impact Framework—a tool that will help us measure the difference your support is making in classrooms and across the industry.
Through the Power of Partnership, AITC-M is closing the knowledge gap, equipping teachers, and inspiring students with hands-on learning that connects classrooms to food, and future careers. Because of you, more students than ever before were reached in 2024—and that impact will grow for years to come.
Your support also helped bring together a new Educator Steering Committee, giving teachers a direct voice in shaping the resources they use. And through new partnerships, you opened doors for students to explore the diverse career paths agriculture has to offer.
And there’s still more to do.
By 2026, we aim to welcome 2,026 new educator champions—and increase industry support with those who share their belief in the power of agriculture education.
With you by our side, we can build an informed public, a skilled workforce, and a resilient agriculture industry—for everyone.
Thank you for believing in this work. Thank you for making it possible.
Katharine Cherewyk
Executive Director
Laura Holtmann
President
Explore our story
The Power of
Partnership by the Numbers
EXPANDING OUR REACH
Our Growth
in Students
Registered
in Programs
Our Growth
in Educator Champions
Agriculture in the Classroom-Manitoba is growing
year after year.
schools across Manitoba in 2024
That’s 1 in every 2 schools in Manitoba!
Manitoba Schools
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Winnipeg schools in 2024
See Full School List
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Growing Our Digital Reach
AITC-M continues to expand its digital presence, ensuring agricultural education reaches more Manitobans. Our strategy has focused on creating compelling content that educates, inspires, and invites engagement.
facebook:
- Reach: Up 25.1%
- Content Interactions: Up 5.6%
- Visits: Up a remarkable 87%
instagram:
- Reach: Up 523.3%
- Content Interactions: Up 100%
- Links Clicked: Up 215.8%
- Visits: Up 25.6%
- Followers: Gained 150 new supporters
Linkedin:
- Followers: Up 75% (1,376 total)
- Impressions: Up 858% (70,885 total)
STRENGTHENING OUR INDUSTRY OUTREACH
AITC-M’s team connected face-to-face with agriculture industry leaders across Manitoba. Having a
presence at industry trade shows, AGMs, seminars and conferences helped us expand our network,
introduce new programming, and build lasting relationships with those who share our vision.
You saw us here…
Bringing
Agriculture to more Students
than ever before
The agriculture industry relies on a knowledgeable public and a skilled workforce—but most
students never learn about food production, sustainability, or careers in the sector.
This is where AITC-M steps in.
In 2024, we expanded agricultural education across Manitoba, reaching more students, educators,
and communities than ever before. With hands-on learning, real-world experiences, and engaging
classroom resources, we gave teachers the confidence to integrate ag education into their curriculum,
and helped young people understand and appreciate the role agriculture plays in their lives.
Here’s how we made an impact this year.
CSI Summer Program:
Agriculture in Inner-City Classrooms
This summer, AITC-M partnered with BCG Winnipeg’s Community School Investigators (CSI) program to bring agriculture education to inner-city schools in Winnipeg. Students explored the science, technology, engineering,
and math (STEM) behind modern agriculture, helping them see food production in a whole new way.
Why This Matters: Expanding agriculture education in urban communities builds public
trust in the industry and inspires diverse talent to consider careers in agriculture.
625 students in 12 schools engaged
in agriculture education
51 new teacher candidates introduced
to AITC-M resources
Partner Spotlight
Thank you to Manitoba Canola Growers Association and Nutrien for your support!
Seed Survivor: Hands-On Learning for Rural & Underserved Schools
In urban, rural and remote areas, the Seed Survivor mobile classroom, supported by Nutrien, rolled across Manitoba, delivering an interactive experience about plant growth, soil health, and food production. This traveling exhibit is packed with interactive games, digital displays, and hands-on activities that teach students the fundamentals of agriculture—including the chance to plant and take home their own sunflower seed!
Why This Matters: Programs like Seed Survivor ensure that students in rural and underserved communities have equal access to hands-on agricultural education.
“My students loved watching for the plants to sprout and take care of them. The students were so excited to take their plants home and plant them into their garden and would tell me daily how they were doing. My classroom garden was not up and running but will be implementing the many activities we did in the trailer into my class next year!”
4,968 students in 46 schools visited
the Seed Survivor trailer in 2024
Expanded to Swan River and surrounding communities
Partner Spotlight
Thank you, Nutrien, for your support!
Our Northern Adventure
In June, AITC-M expanded agriculture education to Manitoba’s North for the first time,
delivering hands-on learning to students in Thompson and Nelson House.
Students engaged in interactive workshops featuring Journey 2050 presentations, problem-solving
activities, and classroom presentations that introduced them to the impact of agriculture on their daily lives.
Educators were eager to bring these lessons back to their communities, extending our reach beyond this trip.
Why This Matters: Expanding ag education to northern and Indigenous communities ensures that
all Manitobans, regardless of location, can engage with and benefit from agriculture literacy.
9 northern schools reached,
including 4 new to AITC-M!
1,442 student experiences &
119 teacher engagements
Launched our first ever French-language professional development session!
Offered Career Exploration and Journey 2050 presentations to students
At Juniper School in Thompson, MB, a chance encounter with a teacher in the staff room underscored the impact of our work. Stopping by our educator table during her prep period, she was surprised to see us and eager to learn more.
She shared a candid reflection:
“When I teach agriculture, I always start by telling my students, ‘You’re from the North, and I’m from the North—none of us know much about southern agriculture, so let’s just get through this unit and Google what we need to.’
That changed the moment she explored our resources.
“These materials are going to make a huge difference! They’re exactly what we need to teach agriculture in a way that makes sense to us. The hands-on activities and games will help students engage with a topic that once felt out of reach. We might actually enjoy this unit—not just ‘get through it’!”
This moment reinforces why we do what we do. By making agricultural education accessible and engaging, we’re breaking down barriers and ensuring every student—no matter where they live—can connect with the industry that feeds them.
Partner Spotlight
Thank you to Nutrien for your support in spreading Journey 2050 to the North!
Garden Program Expansion
Classroom garden programs continue to flourish as one of the most in-demand learning experiences for Manitoba teachers. These hands-on, year-round, cross-curricular initiatives provide students with an opportunity to grow and eat their own food while learning about soil health, nutrition, sustainability, and food security.
From our Little Green Sprouts table-top gardens for early learners to metal cart Little Green Thumbs gardens equipped with lighting and containers for growing peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and greens, students of all ages are engaging with agriculture in a meaningful way.
Why Garden-Based Learning Matters
Garden-based agriculture education is more than just a classroom activity—it’s a gateway to deeper agricultural literacy. Educators who integrate garden learning often continue expanding their knowledge and using AITC-M’s additional programs and resources for years. As food production becomes increasingly removed from daily life, these programs offer students a tangible experience of what it takes to grow food, fostering curiosity and a connection to agriculture.
175 educators integrating classroom gardens into their curriculum
8,346 students engaging in hands-on agriculture learning
129 schools participating across Manitoba
“My students raced into the classroom every morning to check on their plants. For many, it was their first experience planting a seed and watching it grow. They were fascinated, and shouts of ‘This is so cool! WOW!’ were heard daily. The Little Green Sprouts program provided everything we needed for a hands-on, enriching experience. Thank you to the generous donors who make this possible. Miigwech!”
Empowering Educators & Cultivating Champions
Educators are key to delivering impactful ag education—and 2024 saw major growth in support.
Expanding Professional Development
What’s the key to integrating agriculture into classrooms across Manitoba?
Empowering educators and inspiring them to see the value of adding agriculture education into their lesson plans.
To do this, we chose to significantly enhance our Professional Development (PD) offerings in 2024.
Highlights of the Year:
- MTS Professional Development Days: Delivered engaging sessions and maintained interactive booths in both English and French, broadening our outreach and impact.
- PD Sessions in French: At École communautaire la voie du nord in Thompson, we delivered PD sessions in French to ensure more Francophone educators and their students have access to our resources and programs.
- LIFT in Brandon & Garden-Based Learning: Provided hands-on PD opportunities, enriching educators’ toolkits with practical, outdoor learning experiences.
- Frontier School Division School Committee Conference: Began building our relationship with Frontier School Division, which reaches some of Manitoba’s most northern and remote educators and students—an audience with historically limited engagement in our programs. We connected with 80% of Frontier schools, fostering discussions on integrating agricultural topics into diverse educational settings.
Feedback highlights the effectiveness and depth of our PD programs. One high school teacher from Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School in Brandon remarked:
“My highlight for today was the physical takeaways. The fact that this program is working to dispel the myths that media promotes and perpetuates about the Ag industry is amazing. The amount of thought put into the resources, linking them to outcomes and the curriculum was impressive.”
This enthusiastic feedback underscores the success of our initiatives in not only educating but also inspiring educators to weave agricultural literacy into their curricula. As we continue to expand our network of educator champions, each empowered teacher brings us closer to a future where agriculture’s vital role in our society is universally understood and appreciated.
Looking Ahead: AITC-M is committed to continuing this momentum, ensuring that our educators are well-equipped to bring real-world agricultural practices into every classroom.
Expanding French-Language
Agricultural Education in Manitoba
At AITC-M, we believe every student deserves access to high-quality agricultural education—no matter their language.
In 2024, we expanded our French-language programming to better serve Francophone educators and students across Manitoba.
Growing Our French-Language Offerings
- Six dedicated programs for French educators, including:
- Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month (CALM)
- Great Canadian Farm Tour (Seasons 3 & 4)
- Little Green Thumbs & Little Green Sprouts
- 207 French-language resources distributed to classrooms across the province, increasing accessibility and engagement.
BREAKING GROUND: Our First French Language Career Case
A major milestone in 2024 was relaunching Agri-Mission, the French version of Career Case. Agri-Mission ensures Francophone students had access to the same hands-on career exploration opportunities as their English-speaking peers, helping them discover the diverse pathways in agriculture and food.
As we continue expanding our reach, we remain committed to strengthening French-language agricultural education—ensuring that every student, no matter their background, can connect with the industry that feeds us all.
New Tool For Educators: The AITC-M Resource Library
In September, we launched the AITC-M Resource Library, a dynamic platform designed to enhance educators’ access to high-quality agricultural materials.
Key Features
- Easy search and filtering – Find curriculum-aligned resources by grade level, subject, and language.
- Bilingual accessibility – All resources are available in English and French.
- Nationwide content – Includes materials from Agriculture in the Classroom organizations across Canada.
This innovative tool empowers educators to bring accurate, engaging agricultural education into their classrooms with ease. Since launching the library, 216 educators have already downloaded 1,484 resources from the library!
Empowering students
with Science-Based
Agriculture Education
Today’s students, parents and educators are bombarded with misleading information about food, farming, and sustainability. Without access to accurate, real-world learning, they risk forming opinions based on myths—not facts.
AITC-M has the solution.
By connecting classrooms with real farmers, industry professionals, and science-backed programs, we help students
engage with agriculture in a meaningful way—replacing misinformation with knowledge, trust, and curiosity.
- Students gain firsthand experience with farming and food production.
- Educators are equipped with science-based, curriculum-aligned resources.
- Industry volunteers engage directly with young people, fostering transparency and trust.
And the results speak for themselves.
Amazing Agriculture
Adventure: Bringing the Classroom to Agriculture
This fall, the Amazing Agriculture Adventure (AAA) returned to the Bruce D. Campbell Farm and Food Discovery Centre, giving students a hands-on introduction to modern agricultural production.
At interactive learning stations, students explored dairy, beef, pork, poultry, bees, veterinary care, forages, watersheds, and farm safety. For many, it was their first time on a farm, helping them understand how food is produced and why sustainability matters. This year’s AAA featured a Career Exploration Day for Grades 9–12, showcasing the diverse career pathways in one of Manitoba’s largest industries.
Why This Matters: Many students have never set foot on a farm. AAA brings them face-to-face with agriculture—helping them connect with the people who grow their food.
“Many high school students are so disconnected from where their food comes from and never get the opportunity to really see how our food is raised. The Amazing Agriculture Adventure was a great chance for students to not only see where their food comes from but to gain a better appreciation for all of the important people and careers involved in getting food to the table.”
750 students 100 more
than last year participated
29 educators from 17schools
(including 13home school groups
80 volunteers from 11 industry organizations
Partner Spotlight
Thank you to 4H Manitoba, Dairy Farmers of Manitoba, the Government of Manitoba, the Manitoba Association of Watersheds, Manitoba Beef and Forage Initiatives, Manitoba Beef, Manitoba Canola Growers, Manitoba Chicken Producers, Manitoba Egg Farmers, and Manitoba Pork for your support – and to our AAA sponsors, Topigs Norsvin, Manitoba Chicken Producers, HyLife, Farmery, and BeeMaid Honey Ltd.
Follow the farmers: Season 3
What if students could step onto a farm without ever leaving their classroom?
That’s exactly what Season 3 of our Follow the Farmers program made possible during the 2023-2024 school year. Through live, interactive virtual farm tours, students got a behind-the-scenes look at modern turkey, soybean and potato farming, exploring sustainability, innovation, and animal care practices firsthand.
Program Highlights:
- Live virtual farm tours connected students directly with farmers
- Interactive Q&A sessions helped dispel common myths about agriculture
- On-demand access allowed teachers to integrate the tours into their curriculum
- Hands-on, curriculum-connected activities extended learning beyond the screen
Why This Matters: Students don’t just need to see farming—they need to hear directly from the people who do it. These experiences build trust and correct misconceptions in real time.
“Students were excited to see real farmers and real farms! These experiences help them understand where their food comes from and make meaningful connections to what we learn in class.”
3,323 students from 145 classrooms participated
Turkey Tour: 55 live views 524 post event views
Soybean Tour: 66 live views 4,009 post event views
Potato Tour: 74 live views 1,230 post event views
Partner Spotlight
Thank you to Penner Farm Services, Manitoba Turkey Producers, Manitoba Pulse
and Soybean Growers, and Peak of the Market for your support.
Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month (CALM): Exploring Water & Sustainability
What happens to a drop of water after it falls to the ground?
During Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month (CALM) in March, students explored how water moves through the land, why healthy watersheds matter, and how agriculture plays a role in protecting them.
Using interactive watershed models, students saw firsthand how pollution moves through water systems—then learned real-world solutions that Manitoba farmers use to protect water quality and ecosystems.
Why This Matters: Environmental sustainability is a major concern for today’s students—and many don’t realize how much agriculture contributes to protecting the planet.
“The watershed activity was so cool. It is so important to take care of our waste so that the animals don’t get sick.”
7,400 students participated
146 industry volunteers visited classrooms
346 classrooms engaged in
hands-on watershed learning
Partner Spotlight
Thank you to Agriculture in the Classroom Canada, Cargill, and the
Manitoba Association of Watersheds for your support.
Growing THE Next Generation
of Agriculture
Professionals
Canada’s agriculture industry faces a critical workforce shortage—123,000 jobs must be filled by 2030. Yet, most Manitobans can’t name a single career in agriculture beyond farming
AITC-M is solving this challenge by introducing students to the vast career opportunities in agriculture through hands-on experiences, career fairs, and classroom resources. By partnering with industry leaders and post-secondary institutions, we’re helping students see themselves in agriculture—not just as farmers, but as scientists, engineers, business professionals, and innovators.
From Career Case and Cultivate Your Career workshops to Agriculture & Food Workforce Tours, AITC-M ensures that students
and educators have direct access to real-world career insights. Through these province-wide efforts, we are bridging the gap between industry needs and student aspirations.
Partner Shoutout
Thanks to the support of the Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership, Agriculture in the Classroom Canada, Enns Brothers, Greenvalley Equipment, and RBC, we are ensuring that every student in Manitoba has the chance to explore a career in agriculture.
Career Exploration in Every AITC-M Program
In 2024, career conversations became an integral part of every AITC-M program. From early learners to high school students, agriculture careers were embedded into our events, classroom resources, and hands-on experiences:
- AAA (Amazing Agriculture Adventure): We introduced a dedicated day for high school students to explore agriculture careers firsthand.
- CALM (Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month): Industry volunteers shared their own agriculture career journeys during classroom visits.
- Journey 2050: We highlighted careers connected
to sustainability and global food security.
The Power of Partnerships
None of this would be possible without the incredible industry and education partnerships that fuel the
ACE program. In 2024:
- 400 educators supported career exploration
(233 in 2023) - 20,000+ students engaged in career exploration (12,037 in 2023)
- 80 industry volunteers helped deliver programming (50 in 2023)
- 1,263 Career Case, Agri-Mission, and Cultivate Your Career resources were shipped (632 in 2023)
- 139 businesses participated in ACE career events, leading to partnerships, job opportunities, and financial support.
Agriculture & Food Industry Tours
One of the most exciting developments in 2024 has
been AITC-M’s participation in Manitoba Agriculture’s Agriculture and Food Industry Tours for career
and workforce influencers.
During each tour, we presented our Career Case and Cultivate Your Career resources presented to educators and industry professionals across Winnipeg, Brandon, Morden, Winkler, Dauphin, Steinbach, and Portage. Educators and schools connected through the tours have joined our flagship ACE programs, including
AAA Careers, and EngAGed Career Fairs.
These tours have a ripple effect by expanding our reach, strengthening key partnerships, and creating new opportunities, including:
- Deepening our relationship with R.B. Russel Vocational High School’s Horticulture Program through participation as a keynote speaker in our Little Green Thumbs Annual Workshop.
- An invitation to present Cultivate Your Career at the Interprovincial Association on Native Employment Westman (IANE) in March 2024.
- An expansion of our Summer Ag Discovery Program in Portage la Prairie thanks to additional support from Enns Brothers.
- A new partnership with Career Trek resulting in more Career Case presentations and Summer Ag Discovery opportunities.
- A stronger partnership with Portage Collegiate Institute, leading to new Young Women in Agriculture summit.
As well, our Cultivate Your Career resource evolved thanks to industry feedback and is now being distributed by partners, including:
- The Bruce D. Campbell Farm and Food Discovery Centre
- Assiniboine Community College
- Keystone Agricultural Producers
- ProteinMB
- Food and Beverage Manitoba
- Manitoba Agriculture
- Youth Employment Services Manitoba
- Manitoba Metis Federation
These industry tours have proven to be a game-changer in expanding AITC-M’s network and impact. By working closely with Manitoba Agriculture, we are leveraging existing initiatives rather than reinventing the wheel, ensuring sustainable and impactful career programming.
EngAGed Career Fair: Agriculture’s Career Possibilities on Display
In May, AITC-M brought the EngAGed Career Fair to Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School in Brandon, where over 1,200 students explored real-world career opportunities in agriculture.
With 24 industry exhibitors, students engaged in hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, and career conversations with professionals across agri-food, agri-tech, agronomy, business, and trades.
Why This Matters: Students can’t dream of careers they’ve never seen. EngAGed Career Fair helps students experience the possibilities firsthand.
1200
high school students attended
24
industry exhibitors showcased hands-on experiences
Partner Spotlight
Thank you to all our Career Fair partners for believing in the work we do, and for putting in the extra effort to create interactive displays that make our events such a huge success!
Women in Agriculture: Empowering the Next Generation
In March, AITC-M partnered with Portage Collegiate Institute to host a Young Women in Agriculture Summit at Enns Brothers.
Through real-world stories, career advice, and mentorship, female professionals in agriculture shared their journeys and inspired young women to explore careers in the industry.
One student captured the event’s impact perfectly: “I didn’t realize how many opportunities there are for women in agriculture. Hearing their experiences made me think, ‘I can do this too!’”
Why This Matters: Women remain underrepresented in many areas of agriculture. Programs like this break down barriers and show students that the future of agriculture is diverse and inclusive.
25
students registered
This groundbreaking event
Featured inspiring female leaders in agriculture and food
Partner Spotlight
Thank you to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Indigenous Student Recruitment Initiative, Enns Brothers, City of Portage, and Community Futures Heartland for supporting this initiative.
CANADA CAREER MONTH
As part of Canada Career Month, we set up a photo booth in the atrium of the University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences—creating a space for students to celebrate their passion for agriculture and reflect on where their journey began.
We had inspiring conversations with students pursuing careers as agronomists, farmers, dietitians, food developers, and more. Their enthusiasm reaffirmed the diverse opportunities in the agri-food sector and the importance of early exposure to agricultural education.
A standout moment? Thirty percent of the students we spoke with recalled participating in an AITC-M program during elementary or high school, proof that these experiences spark lasting interest and shape future career paths. And for many, agriculture wasn’t an obvious choice—36% did not come from a farming background. When asked why they chose the industry:
79%
cited the variety of career opportunities
50%
said they were passionate about the industry
50%
were influenced by someone working in agriculture or food — a testament to the power of the educators, mentors, and partners we work with.
Beyond sparking interest, AITC-M is helping build a community of future leaders. Sixty-two percent of the students we spoke with signed up to volunteer with us, and one individual is taking their involvement even further—volunteering for Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month (CALM) and joining AITC-M as a summer student!
The next generation of Manitoba’s agriculture industry is engaged, inspired, and ready to lead. We’re proud to play a role in their journey.
2025 AITC-M Educator
Champion
Award
NICK JANZEN,
Linden Christian School
(Winnipeg, Manitoba)
At his Manitoba high school, Mr. Janzen has built a classroom where agriculture education comes to life. From window sills lined with plants to a vertical grow tower and student-led greenhouse projects, his teaching is rooted in hands-on learning.
He brings in guest speakers, uses interactive games, and takes students on filedtrips to the Farm and Food Discovery Centre. The impact is profound. One parent shared that both of their children left Mr. Janzen’s class inspired to grow food at home—and one even changed university faculties to study agriculture.
Mr. Janzen’s passion extends beyond his own classroom—he’s inspired fellow educators and sparked a love of agriculture in the wider school community.
CONGRATULATIONS, MR. JANZEN!
“Walking into his classroom and seeing the plants lining the windowsills and the abundant vertical grow tower planter is striking. I knew immediately that this was a classroom set apart.”
“I recall being so captivated by his energy and excitement about what he was teaching and by what we were learning that I wanted desperately to absorb as much as I could about all of it and all that he was teaching us.”
Deepening our
Roots through Multi-Year
Partnerships
Real, lasting change in agricultural education doesn’t happen overnight—it requires long-term commitment.
The challenges facing agriculture—rising misinformation, growing disconnection between consumers
and food production, and a rapidly changing political and economic landscape—demand a sustained,
strategic, and nimble response.
That’s why multi-year investments are the strongest way to support AITC-M’s mission.
These commitments allow us to deepen our roots, plan for the future, and build resilience in an uncertain world.
With stable, multi-year funding, AITC-M can:
- Expand agricultural education into more classrooms across Manitoba.
- Develop new, innovative learning experiences for students of all ages.
- Strengthen partnerships with educators to integrate agriculture into core subjects.
- Provide long-term opportunities for industry professionals to engage with students.
In 2024, five organizations joined the AITC-M Leadership Circle, making multi-year commitments that
will fuel the growth of agricultural education for years to come. Their investments ensure that students
and educators continue to benefit from high-quality, science-based programs that inspire the next generation.
Expanding Career Education
Enns Brothers and Greenvalley Equipment are strengthening Manitoba’s agriculture workforce by investing in the ACE program, which brings career-focused learning to classrooms across the province. Their contribution ensures that students learn about the range of careers available in agriculture, from mechanics and technology to agronomy and business.
- $75,000 commitment over three years
- Supporting the Agriculture Career Exploration (ACE) program
“At Enns Brothers and Greenvalley Equipment, we joined forces to maximize our impact, understanding that a strong investment is essential to secure the future of Manitoba’s agriculture workforce. Our multi-year donation provides AITC-M with the funding stability it needs to expand crucial career programs like its EngAGed Career Fairs, which bring agriculture careers to the forefront for middle and high school students. We’re proud to stand with AITC-M in their mission to inspire young minds.”
Bringing Students Closer to Livestock Production
Manitoba Beef Producers is ensuring that students gain accurate, science-based knowledge about beef farming through interactive programs and classroom resources. Their investment supports initiatives like the Amazing Agriculture Adventure: Animals, which gives students an up-close look at livestock care and sustainability practices in the beef industry.
- $105,000 multi-year investment
- Expanding hands-on learning experiences focused on beef production
“Our multi-year commitment will ensure school-aged children across Manitoba have access to accurate, balanced, and science-based resources about the beef sector delivered by Agriculture in the Classroom-Manitoba in a fun and engaging manner. There is tremendous value in connecting farmers and educators to spark conversations and promote hands-on learning opportunities that bring the farm to the classroom.”
Strengthening Agriculture Education
Manitoba Chicken Producers is helping to expand curriculum-aligned programs that bring agriculture into the classroom. Their investment will provide teachers with science-backed materials and offer students engaging, interactive learning experiences about food production.
- $60,000 over three years
- Support for classroom resources and interactive learning opportunities
“We appreciate the passion and commitment AITC-M has to the education of Manitoba students. The initiatives AITC-M undertakes are closely aligned with our own strategic plan key result areas. With so much readily available false or misleading information only a click away, it is so important for the agricultural sector to give students accurate, balanced, and science-based information about our industry so they can make educated decisions on their careers and the food they eat. There is so much positive synergy in working with AITC-M, we are pleased to provide AITC-M with the three-year funding commitment so that they can continue to plan for the future.”
Connecting Students with Manitoba’s Pork Industry
Manitoba Pork is investing in educational initiatives that introduce students to modern pork farming practices. Their support has enhanced programs like the Follow the Hog Farmers virtual tour, giving students an inside look at the industry and the people who feed Manitoba.
- $75,000 commitment over three years
- Expanding K-12 programs and hands-on learning experiences
“Manitoba’s pork producers recognize the importance of agriculture education in our province, and Manitoba Pork is very enthusiastic in our support for all that Agriculture in the Classroom-Manitoba does to further their meaningful work. We look forward to continuing our strong working relationship for many years to come as we work together to provide high-quality educational resources for the next generation of agriculture sector leaders.”
THE LEADERSHIP CIRCLE
Why Multi-Year Funding Matters
These long-term investments provide more than just financial support—they create the foundation that allows AITC-M to:
- Expand programming into more classrooms and communities.
- Develop new, innovative resources that engage students in agriculture.
- Strengthen partnerships with educators to ensure long-term impact.
- Provide sustained opportunities for industry professionals to connect with students.
AITC-M is growing deep roots, ensuring agricultural education remains strong even in uncertain economic and political times.
Join our
Leadership Circle
by contacting:
Katharine Cherewyk, Executive Director
Agriculture in the Classroom-Manitoba
We grow because
of our 2024 Partners
Visionary
($100K-$249,999)
Trailblazer
($50K – $99,999)
Cultivator
($25K – $49,000)
Driver
($10K – $24,999)
Champion
($5K – $9,999)
Builder
($1K – $4,999)
Anonymous
Confidence Management Ltd/FWS Group of Companies
Farm Credit Canada (FCC)
Fisher Seeds
John Sandborn
Kevin Hamblin
Manitoba Potato Production Days
Manitoba Veterinary Association
Mike Klassen
RM of Ste Anne
Shur-Gro Farm Services Ltd
SW Advisory Services Inc
Topigs Norsvin
Trish Jordan
Tristar Dairy Centre Ltd
Supporter
($250 – $999)
5603979 MB Ltd (J & V Pedersen)
6 Valley Farms Ltd
Aaron Brown
Agassiz Seed Farm Ltd
Agwest Ltd
Allan Calder
Al Raine
Ashley Graye
Assiniboine West Watershed District
Bernie & Audrey Brandt
Bob Bartley
Border Chemical Co Ltd
Brandon Teacher’s Association
Brandon University
Brent Derkatch
Brian & Lori Murray
Canadian Agri-food Marketers Alliance
Chris Budiwski
Clarke Munro
Corduroy Plains Ltd
Crystal & Gunter Jochum
Dwayne Leslie
Edward Cook
Ellis Seeds
HyLife Ltd
Jared Munro
Jenelle Hamblin
Jonathan Sawatzky
Jordin & Chelsey Neufeld
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation
Manitoba Farm Women’s Conference
Manitoba Seed Grower’s Association
Manitoba Sheep Association
Maple Leaf Foods Inc
Mark Verwey
Mazergroup
McCain Foods
Orchard Grain Farms Ltd
Pam & Norbert De Rocquigny
Pitura Seeds
Prairie View Municipality
Redview Farms Ltd
RJP Seed Ltd
RM of Grey
RM of Oakview
RM of Pipestone
RM of Rhineland
RM of Springfield
RM of Wallace Woodworth
Roland Air Spray Ltd
Royal Bank of Canada
Rutherford Farms Ltd
Saputo Dairy Products Canada
Seed World Group
Shelley Bartley
Stephanie Cruickshanks
Sue & Kern Clayton
Sunrise Credit Union
Teresa Falk
Thunderstruck Sales & Marketing
Wayne Hiltz
Westoba Credit Union
Westphalia Farms Ltd
Whitemud Watershed District
Young Agrarians
Friend
($50 – $249)
Amber Hebert
Ashley Taylor
Barry McNabb
Beauchemin Enterprises Ltd
Bill Anderson
Blaine Pedersen
Bob Horsman
Boerchers Farm Ltd
Bonnie Bain
Brad & Sandi Knight
Brian Chorney
Brian Kenyon
Brian Nedohin
Bruce Montgomery
Carson Callum
Cathey Day
Clare McBride
Clayton Robins
Cliff Cullen
Cormier’s Berry Patch
Crystal Berthelette
Crystal City-Clearwater Agricultural Society
Crystal Jorgenson
Customized Recruitment
Cynthia Plaseski
D Mack Farms Ltd
Dan Maizer
Darrell & Patricia Friesen
Dawn Orton
Del Fraser
Diane Mauthe
Dianne Riding
Douglas W Livingston
Dwight & Leah Willoughby
Edeltraut (Trudi) Dancho
Everett Gibson
GoodwinBallance Communications
Grace & Matthew Wedlake
Hannah Minshull
Heather and Joel Martens
Hometown Service Ltd
Jeff Blixhavn
Jennifer Dyck
Jennifer McCombe-Theroux
Jessica Brady
Jill & Myron Krahn
Jill Verwey
Jim Thiessen
Joanne Buth
Joe Cleutinx
Johl Swedlo
John & Charlotte Peach
John Chorney Farms Ltd
John Gaudes
Judy Wilson
Juliana Baird
Karen Burton
Kelly Green
Kevin & Linda McGill
Kristen Matwychuk
Laura Holtmann
Laurel Hyde
Laurel Lyons
Laurie Connor
Lesia (Alexandra) Payne
Leslie Wishart
MacNair Farms Ltd
Manitoba Women’s Institute
Marc Hutlet Seeds Ltd
Marie Chevrier
Mark Georges
Marvin Elder
Michael & Jessica Canning
Michelle Philippot
P & D Froese Farm Ltd
Patsy Michiels
Paul & Pat Orsak
Pen-Dale Farms Ltd
Prairie Fruit Growers Association
Quinn Robins
Redfern Farm Services Ltd
RM of Brenda-Waskada
RM of Louise
RM of Minto Odanah
RM of Mountain
RM of North Cypress-Langford
RM of Roland
RM of Yellowhead
Robert & Charlene Graham
Ron & Carol Brand
Rosalie Beamish
Ryan McBride
Sarah Stephens
Stephen Biggar
Stephen Fox
Stoesz Acres Ltd
Tenesha Lawson
Theresa Bolton
Theresa Ramsoomair
Tim Rollheiser
Tracy Gilson
Val Weeks
Walter & Debra Finlay
Warren Ellis
Western Ag Global
Woodmore Women’s Institute
An
Update
from
AITC-Canada
As the national voice for agriculture education, Agriculture in the Classroom Canada (AITC-C) works closely with provincial partners like AITC-M to inspire students and educators with accurate, balanced, and curriculum-linked learning experiences. Through collaboration, resource development, and national programs, we help bring agriculture into more classrooms, fostering meaningful connections to the food system.
In 2024, our collective efforts reached over 2 million students across Canada through initiatives like Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month (CALM), the Great Canadian Farm Tour, and the I AM AG career campaign. We also expanded Mission Explorium, engaging over 6,000 students in a hands-on sustainability challenge. These programs, supported by partners such as Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, continue to grow in impact and accessibility.
We are proud to support AITC-M’s efforts in bringing agriculture to life for students and educators in the province. From virtual farm tours to classroom resources and career exploration tools, our shared commitment ensures that the next generation sees themselves as part of this vital industry. Together, we are building a future where every student understands and appreciates the role of agriculture in their daily lives.
Learn more at aitc-canada.ca
Our Volunteers:
the People
behind the Programs
Young people connect with agriculture when they meet the real people behind it. Volunteers serve as trusted voices who inspire students and help them see agriculture as a dynamic and rewarding field.
AITC-M’s impact is only possible because of the dedicated volunteers who bring agriculture to life
in classrooms across Manitoba. These individuals—farmers, industry professionals, educators,
and community members—donate their time and expertise to engage students with hands-on learning
experiences, lead classroom discussions, and serve as mentors for the next generation.
In 2024, 126 new volunteers joined our team, strengthening our ability to deliver meaningful
agricultural education. Their contributions allow us to expand our reach, connect with more students,
and ensure that agriculture remains an essential part of Manitoba’s learning landscape.
Over the last three years, we’ve had 450 new volunteers join our organization!
Volunteer contributions in 2024
Would you like to share your story and help shape the future of agriculture?
join us in growing
the future of agriculture
Agriculture’s future depends on a public that understands and values it. AITC-M is working every day to connect students with the knowledge, experiences, and career pathways that will shape the next generation of informed consumers, voters, and industry leaders.
But we can’t do it alone.
Through the power of partnership, we are building a stronger, more resilient future for agriculture—one where every student has access to hands-on learning, science-based resources, and real-world career insights. When industry, educators, and community partners come together, the impact is limitless.
Every dollar invested in agricultural education strengthens this network, helping us expand programs, reach more students, and equip teachers with the tools to integrate agriculture into their classrooms
your contribution
makes and impact
- $75 provides an educator with classroom resources
to introduce agriculture to their students. - $250 supports an interactive learning experience
that connects students with real-world agriculture. - $500 helps bring an industry mentor into a classroom
to inspire future careers. - $1,000+ enables AITC-M to expand programming
to underserved communities and schools.
Your support fuels the partnerships that make agricultural education possible. Together, we are strengthening public trust, closing the knowledge gap, and ensuring the agriculture industry has a strong future.
would you like to explore
Other ways
to support agricultural education?
Get in touch to learn more about sponsorships, volunteering, or becoming a multi-year donor.