Niagara partnership connects more than 1,200 youth with careers in agriculture

October 1, 2026

As Niagara’s agriculture sector grows, so does the need for a strong talent pipeline to support its future.

A joint initiative between Niagara College and Niagara Region Economic Development is helping build that talent pipeline by connecting more than 1,200 local youth in schools and community groups across seven municipalities with hands-on agriculture career exploration.

“This proactive partnership between Niagara College and Niagara Region Economic Development is connecting more students in our region to our growing agricultural sector and the jobs of tomorrow,” said Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West. “The Agriculture Career Outreach Initiative is providing practical training and hands-on learning for high-demand jobs, supporting our local food supply chain and protecting Ontario.”

Launched in January 2026, the Agriculture Career Outreach Initiative delivered specialized learning activities for students across Niagara. Engagement surpassed initial projections, demonstrating strong interest in agriculture programming among local youth.

“Agriculture is central to Niagara’s economy and identity,” said Ron Tripp, Chief Administrative Officer, Niagara Region. “Through Niagara’s Agricultural Action Plan, we are working with industry, education and municipal partners to support innovation, strengthen local businesses and help ensure the sector remains competitive for generations to come.”

Support from Niagara Region Economic Development also enabled more students to participate in hands-on learning at Niagara College, where they gained practical experience in the sector.

"This initiative between Niagara College and the Niagara Region is a great example of what can take root when we work together to address workforce needs," said Niagara College President Sean Kennedy. "We’re grateful to the Region for its collaboration and for recognizing the important role of colleges in training the next generation of workers to help grow our local economy."

In the spring, partners from Niagara College and Niagara Region Economic Development gathered at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake to see the students in action during one of the ‘Agriculture Days.’ Guided by Niagara College faculty and students, participants explored many facets of horticulture programming through the college’s living lab, including the lagoon, vineyard and teaching greenhouse.

"This partnership has helped more students see firsthand where an agriculture education can take them," said Evan DiValentino, Dean of Business and Environment, Niagara College. "Through Niagara College’s School of Environment and Horticulture, students gain hands-on experience, practical skills and industry knowledge that can lead to a wide-range of careers in the agriculture sector.”

This fall, outreach will continue to introduce more young people to careers in agriculture through workshops, educator awareness events, presentations, specialized campus tours and other activities.

Media contact

Rachel Dedinsky
Senior Communications Specialist
Niagara Region
rachel.dedinsky@niagararegion.ca
905-658-8156

Michael Wales
Director, Communications
Niagara College
mwales@niagaracollege.ca
905-328-4101