Looking to brush up on your agri-food terminology? The Ontario Agricultural College has launched a new collaboration with UTENSIL, an online learning platform [1] designed to support students prepare for careers in Canada’s agri-food sector.
With constantly changing technology, language and processes, the agri-food industry can be complex to navigate. That’s why the Ontario Agricultural College has launched a new collaboration with UTENSIL [1]. Developed by OAC alumna Crystal MacKay, UTENSIL is a practical knowledge hub featuring short courses and resources created by farmers and agri-food professionals to help students build confidence in Canadian agricultural knowledge, professional communication, and career readiness.
“Utensil complements the strong academic and experiential learning our students already receive at OAC. It’s a useful tool for students who want to better understand the agri-food sector and prepare for professional roles within it,” John Cranfield, Dean of the Ontario Agricultural College.
UTENSIL is available to undergraduate, graduate, and diploma students, and may be especially helpful for students who are newer to Canadian agriculture, including international students.
Through this collaboration, OAC students receive free access to UTENSIL resources, including a plain-language guide to food and farming terminology, short resource videos on Canadian agriculture and resources to help students work with food producers and farmers.
UTENSIL's learning modules include:
- Utensil 101: An educational video resource library designed to provide practical context and content on Canadian agriculture. 80+ interesting 3-6 minute videos to help you get started in learning about new agriculture topics, with links and ideas for continued learning.
- So… Your Client is a Farmer: A 90min course to help you understand how to better work with and for farmers. Includes videos, self-assessment, training guide and post evaluation. Students receive a Certificate of Completion.
- Grow Your Brand: A 45min online course to help you better understand your personal and professional brand. Includes on-demand videos, self-assessment, training guide and post evaluation. Students receive a Certificate of Completion.
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“OAC students are entering a complex and fast-moving agri-food system,” says MacKay. “Utensil was built to provide practical context and accessible learning that helps students communicate effectively and navigate the agri-food industry with confidence.”
Students are encouraged to explore the platform and use it as a supplement to their studies and career planning.