Alberta’s longest-running agriculture training program is celebrating a milestone. The province’s Green Certificate Program has officially hit the 50-year mark, a half-century of launching young Albertans into hands-on careers in farming, ranching and agri-business.

A First-of-Its-Kind Program Still Going Strong

Built in 1975 as the first program of its kind in Canada, the Green Certificate Program gives high school students the chance to earn credits while working directly on farms and in agri-businesses. It has become one of Alberta’s most successful rural employment pipelines, connecting youth to the industry and building confidence through real-world learning.

Today, the province marked the anniversary alongside program coordinators, college partners and government officials who have supported the program’s growth over five decades.

Hands-On Learning That Builds Careers

Minister RJ Sigurdson said the program’s strength lies in its ability to give students both skills and independence.

Since 1975, thousands of students have entered the agriculture industry through this pathway, gaining experience at their own pace under the guidance of industry experts. Graduates often move on to post-secondary agriculture programs, build careers, and in many cases return home to take over or expand family operations.

Strong Support from Alberta’s Colleges

The program is delivered in partnership with Northwest Polytechnic, Lakeland College, Olds College and Lethbridge Polytechnic. Lakeland College president Dr Alice Wainwright-Stewart said the partnership has benefited everyone involved, noting generations of families who have taken part as trainees, instructors, and coordinators.

Green Certificate regional coordinator Jennifer Stoby added that the program’s hands-on model and strong industry relationships help students build networks early, often shaping their future career paths.

Students Say the Experience Sticks

For many, the opportunity to learn by doing is what makes the impact last.

Lakeland College instructor Kaylie Lawrence said the ability to earn credits while caring for livestock gave her practical knowledge and confidence, especially through the conversational testing style that helped her build communication skills.

Training the Future of Alberta Agriculture

Students can choose from 11 primary agriculture career streams including beef, dairy, poultry, sheep, greenhouse, field crops, equine and more. Each graduate earns 16 high school credits and industry-level training that sets them up for employment in their chosen specialty.

Coordinator Jessi Selte says the program continues to produce well-informed, employable young people who often stay in the industry, launch agri-businesses or take over family farms.

Quick Facts

▪️ Offered in 253 high schools across 333 Alberta communities

▪️ About 450 students graduate with Green Certificate credentials every year

▪️ Roughly 5,000 graduates over the past decade

▪️ Students train on real farms under experienced mentors

▪️ Program founded by Walter McNally, later expanded by pioneers Walter Scott and Doug Taylor

After 50 years, Alberta’s Green Certificate Program remains a cornerstone of rural education, shaping the next generation of farmers and keeping the province’s agricultural legacy strong.