Wyatt Brauer is an agriculture student at the University of Guelph’s Ridgetown Campus [1] who comes from a family-owned farm in Prince Edward County, Ontario. In this #CanadaAgDay feature, Wyatt reflects on the resilience and dedication of Canadian farmers and why recognizing those who put food on the table matters to him. He also shares what drew him to the Ridgetown Campus and how those experiences have shaped his education and future plans in agriculture.

1. Why did you decide to become involved in agriculture?

Farming is a tough but fulfilling career. My grandfather immigrated to Canada in the 1950’s and supported his family on the land I farm today. It is an honour to be a steward of the land and continue our family farming tradition for another generation. 

2. Why did you choose Ridgetown for your diploma in agriculture?

I chose Ridgetown's associate diploma in agriculture program [2] because it offers a hands-on approach to learning in addition to a very thorough in-class curriculum in a variety of agricultural sectors. Having livestock and crops on campus is an invaluable instrument of education for agriculture students, and something that is unique to Ridgetown. 

My favourite experience was the Ridgetown Spring Expo in my first year. It is a student run livestock show and campus showcase. 

3. Why is #CanadaAgDay important to you?

It gives much needed recognition for the people who put food on the table three times a day, and who have done so for generations despite the wild, unforgiving landscape of this expansive country. The labour of the farmer is expected, because it has never faltered. It is important that the people of this country acknowledge and appreciate those who have never failed to provide.  Rain or shine, boom or bust, the farmer goes to work. 

4. What does Canadian agriculture mean to you?

Canadian agriculture today is the byproduct of accumulated toil from generations of dedicated people. These people paved the way so their descendants could survive as they did, and thrive like they couldn’t. They moulded the next generation on the farm to handle anything thrown their way. Never has more been demanded of the farmer, and never has the farmer been so capable. 

5. How has your experience at Ridgetown benefited you in your career?

Ridgetown has been instrumental in establishing my foundation of knowledge in agriculture. The skills I’ve gained here will continue to pay dividends for the rest of my career. After I graduate, I plan to take what I’ve gained from Ridgetown back home to the farm to continue to run my direct-to-consumer livestock and produce business. 

For students looking at a career in agriculture - if you think you would benefit from small classes, passionate faculty, and a hands-on agricultural education, Ridgetown is the place for you.  [2]

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