Ag in the Classroom Canada has a new leader at the helm, and she’s hitting the ground running. Denise Schmidt, a well-known name in Canada’s agriculture industry with a strong background in the seed sector, has been announced as the new executive director for the national organization.
Speaking with RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney, Schmidt shares her motivation for stepping into the role and the opportunities she sees ahead.
Schmidt says that building agricultural literacy across Canada is not just about promoting farming careers—it’s about creating informed citizens who understand the complexity of the food system. She sees Ag in the Classroom as a powerful vehicle to bridge the growing knowledge gap, even in rural communities where agricultural awareness is often assumed but not guaranteed.
In her first week on the job, Schmidt is already looking at how the national body can better support provincial organizations, educators, and students. From expanding outreach programs to connecting with the broader agri-food value chain, she’s focused on uniting industry and education for long-term impact. Key initiatives, such as the “ThinkAG” career exploration program, will continue to be a priority as the organization works to showcase the breadth of opportunities in agriculture—beyond agronomy and farming—to roles in finance, journalism, and beyond.
Funding remains a challenge, with federal contributions tightening. Schmidt acknowledged that fundraising will be a major part of her role, noting that industry partnerships and creative approaches to support will be essential moving forward.
With a strong network and a passion for collaboration, Schmidt says she’s ready to build momentum and help the next generation understand the role of agriculture in their lives—and their potential place in it.
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