By Chris Brown

New Agroecology program announced for Medicine Hat College

Oct 8, 2020 | 10:44 AM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – A new program at Medicine Hat College will put students on the path to a career in sustainable agriculture.

The college says the Agroecology Technician diploma program provides students with the competencies required for producing food, forage, fiber, and fuel using sustainable methods, as well as a range of knowledge in the three E’s: environment, economics, and energy using systems theory.

Through the program, learners will also gain real-world experience in designing, monitoring and assessing sustainable agroecological systems, meeting the knowledge, technical skills, and performance competencies required for certification with the Alberta Institute of Agrologists.

“Medicine Hat College is excited to bring this opportunity to learners in southern Alberta and Saskatchewan as the program is well-aligned and serves the needs of our region and communities in terms of offering new streams of employment and alternative ways of doing agriculture,” explains Brent Smith, the program’s coordinator. “Agriculture is one of southern Alberta’s leading industries, and there is always going to be resources and demand for agriculture because everyone needs to eat. This program leverages an important part of our region’s economic sector and prepares students to find meaningful, long-term employment and a future income stream that’s not going to be subject to market forces.”

Among the job opportunities for someone with an Agroecology Technician diploma are agricultural research technician, urban agriculture designer or landscaper, range management consultant or professional, and environmental consultant.

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Graduates will also be equipped with the entrepreneurial knowledge needed to start a business in sustainable agriculture or greenhouse horticulture, or support the take over of a family agriculture business as a crop or livestock producer.

“An exciting aspect to this program is the innovative and creative opportunities in diversifying current practices and products that will emerge. There are all kinds of agricultural products that our region is well-suited to produce that we are currently not taking advantage of, and this program can be influential in creating new industry and bringing subsequent jobs in our region,” adds Smith.

After completing the diploma, students could transfer to universities offering sustainable agriculture programs. Applications for this program open Nov. 1 for the Fall 2021 semester. For more information on MHC’s Agroecology Technician program or to apply, visit the MHC website.