The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) has launched a series of videos to assist producers with online training and shed some light on the opportunities for careers in agriculture. The Focus on Food and Focus on Livestock video series is part of the “Feeding Your Future” project, a Canadian Agricultural Partnership initiative to connect job seekers to employers in the agri-food sector, and to provide unique training opportunities during the pandemic and beyond.
For the video series, OFA has partnered with the South Central Ontario Region Economic Development Corporation (SCOR EDC), as well as commodity groups, including Beef Farmers of Ontario, Ontario Apple Growers, Ontario Berry Growers, Ontario Pork and Grain Farmers of Ontario. The video series highlights Ontario producers, and a behind-the-scenes look at various tasks and skills needed to be successful in the industry.
“We recognize that hiring and training can be difficult in the wake of the pandemic, with physical distancing and safety barriers in place,” said Peggy Brekveld, OFA President. “We want to make it as easy as possible to access online learning opportunities, while also expanding our reach to people who may not know about the many career paths available in the agri-food sector.”
The video series includes topics such as: herd health and animal welfare, integrated pest management, working with service providers and biosecurity protocols, training and resources for financing, and digital options during COVID-19.
The Feeding Your Future project is funded by the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a five-year federal-provincial-territorial initiative. A recent intake window provided targeted support for labour and training challenges in the agri-food sector. In addition to Feeding Your Future, a pilot program for Agricultural Equipment Operators at Conestoga College in Brant County was funded, and will be accepting their first cohort of students in January, 2021.
To learn more about the Feeding Your Future initiative, and the Focus on Food and Focus on Livestock video series, visit feedingyourfuture.ca.
