Youth and Agriculture

'High school students from Fort St. James Secondary School got a unique opportunity to dive into the world of agriculture. Nikayla Leatherdale and Joshua Hoy joined a group of cattle producers and ranchers from the Nechako Valley region. They discussed the ins and outs of agriculture and how it affects the local economy. They took part in a cost-of-production study session. It was an interactive experience. The event was facilitated by the Nechako Valley Regional Cattlemen's Association. This session was part of the Career Connections program. This program is designed to expose students to various career options. Darren Carpenter, the career and trades programs coordinator for Nechako Lakes School District 91, explained that the program helps students explore job opportunities. Students learned from industry experts. They also shared their own experiences and thoughts. This interaction provided valuable insights and feedback for both the students and the professionals. This was an important part of the program. The data collected will help improve the accuracy of computer modeling. This will aid producers in making informed decisions.The Career Connections program aims to broaden students' horizons. It introduces them to different career paths. The goal is to help students find a career that resonates with them. The students may find that they enjoy the field. They may also find that they prefer something else. Regardless, the experience is valuable. It gives students a glimpse into the real world and helps them make informed decisions about their future. The program encourages students to consider how they can contribute to their community through their careers. The Nechako Lakes School District partners with local businesses to provide these opportunities. The students are more aware of the local job market. They know that they can give back to their community through their work. The program also helps students understand the importance of agriculture in their region. The students may not have had direct access to this information. They learned about the complexities of the industry. They also learned about the challenges faced by local producers. This knowledge can help students make informed decisions about their future careers. The program is open to organizations that want to participate. They can contact the Career and Trades Programs at SD 91 to discuss how students can observe or participate in similar events.