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NSAC delivers educational component of unique farm apprenticeship program
NSAC will be presenting certificates of achievement to the first class of a new farm technician apprenticeship program in PEI this Friday, February 25, 2011.
Developed in consultation with the PEI Trade Advisory Committee, this one-of-a-kind, three-year program combines classroom learning with on-farm experience, earning students a Certificate of Qualification in Farm Technician by the PEI Apprenticeship Section.
“NSAC is proud of the accomplishments of these first graduates of the Qualified Farm Technician program,” said NSAC Co-President and Vice President Academic Dr. Leslie MacLaren. “The program highlights the important contribution of farm technicians to Canada’s agri-food system and demonstrates NSAC’s commitment to partnership with industry and community to deliver quality programming across the Atlantic region.”
Apprentices work throughout the year gaining skills on farm with a farm mentor in addition to participating in eight weeks of in-class training delivered by NSAC in PEI. In-class training combines theory and hands-on practice to assist apprentices achieve licenses and certification in areas key to the agricultural industry.
“We have formed solid partnerships in PEI in developing and offering this training,” said Sarah Macdonald, Manager of Continuing Education at NSAC. “This program fits the needs of PEI’s farming community extremely well. These graduating students have developed the knowledge base and broad set of skills needed for today’s farming and are leading the way for others to follow.”
This unique program was developed to address the demand for a skilled, sustainable, agricultural workforce on PEI.
"The Prince Edward Island Agriculture Sector Council is pleased to be affiliated with NSAC to provide such a comprehensive farm technician apprenticeship program,” said Gwyn Bellefontaine Chair, Prince Edward Island Agriculture Sector Council. “The curriculum is exposing participants to a variety of skills that encompass not only the field crops and farm implements aspect of farming but the significance of the farm as a business entity, where safety is just as important as the product being produced,” she added.
The curriculum covers such things as tractor safety, soil and nutrient management, integrated pest management and farm software applications.
Those interested in becoming Farm Technician Apprentices are required to register by October 2011 with the Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning. The next training block begins in January 2012.
NSAC is a specialized university that cultivates learning and research, focusing on improving and sustaining our environment for the health and well-being of society.
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