What happens when students step out of the classroom and into the heart of BC’s agriculture and food systems? Curiosity blooms. Perspectives shift. Career possibilities come to life.

This year, with the support of our national and provincial partners, we are proud to deliver six transformative think AG Tours, and the first two have already taken place, providing immersive experiences that introduced students to the people, places, and possibilities driving our province’s agri-food sector.

From meeting and networking with industry experts to walking the rows of local farms and facilities, students discovered firsthand how agriculture connects to science, sustainability, nutrition, business, and technology, and where their passions might lead them next.

think Ag Tour - Delta: A Day Rooted in Discovery

On January 17, students from Delta Secondary School participated in a dynamic and enriching day filled with learning and exploration.

Tour Locations:

• West Coast Seeds Farm and Warehouse: A behind-the-scenes look at seed production and logistics
• BC Fresh: Discovering local vegetable processing and distribution
• Apiary Visit: A special highlight where students engaged in the vital world of pollinators and beekeeping

Students were also treated to a catered lunch featuring assorted wraps (vegetarian and meat options), fresh vegetables and fruit, desserts, and drinks. A networking session capped the day, giving students a chance to connect directly with industry professionals and ask meaningful career questions.
 

Networking Sessions Included:

• RBC: Financial careers in agri-business
• BC Greenhouses: Innovations in sustainable crop production
• BC Ministry of Agriculture: Policy and public service in agriculture
• WestGen: Genetics, innovation and maintaining sustainability of Western Canadian dairy and beef producers
• Cropthorne Farm & River and Sea Flowers: Small-scale farming and floriculture
• Dairy Smart Nutrition: Careers in dairy and nutritional sciences

think Ag Tour - Victoria: A Cultivation of Curiosity

On May 1, students from Esquimalt High School and Stelly’s Secondary School in Victoria stepped into a world of possibilities in agriculture and food through tailored presentations and tours.

Tour Locations:

• Sandown Centre for Regenerative Agriculture: Innovative land restoration and farming practices
• Blenkinsop Community Agriculture Centre: Regenerative Farming Techniques
• Dan’s Farm Market: A look at farm-to-market operations
• Saanich Fair Grounds: Community agriculture and events
• Camosun College: Post-secondary pathways in hospitality and culinary arts

A networking session followed, offering students an invaluable opportunity to speak with experts, ask career-related questions, and start imagining their place in BC’s growing agri-food landscape.

Networking Session Included:

• BC Institute of Agrologists (BCIA): Professional designations and the science of agrology
• RBC: Financial roles in the agri-food economy
• BC Ministry of Agriculture: Insights into agricultural policy and planning
• Victoria Air Photos and Survey: Careers in land mapping, GIS, and remote sensing
• Camosun College - Hospitality Department: Training for the food service industry

Why think AG Matters

These tours are more than just field trips, they are immersive experiences that connect students to agri-career possibilities in food production, science, business, technology, nutrition, and sustainability. From seed to surveyor, greenhouse to government, students saw firsthand the diversity and importance of the roles that sustain BC’s food system. By meeting the people behind the food system and exploring the places where food is grown, processed, and studied, students gained not only knowledge but a deeper appreciation for agriculture and its relevance to their lives and futures.

Know someone who would love to learn more about BC’s agriculture and food education opportunities? Share this story and inspire them to think AG, too.

Thanks to the support of national supporters, BCAITC is proud to make these experiences accessible to schools across the province.