AALP Class 14 visits GROWMARK Ontario office and distribution centre

AALP Class 14 at GROWMARK, Kitchener office

“It is an excellent time to be in agriculture, an innovative, growing and diverse sector offering great opportunities for industry leaders like you,” said Frank Campbell, GROWMARK Ontario marketing director as he welcomed the 30 new Advanced Agriculture Leadership Program students to GROWMARK’s Ontario region office in Kitchener. "It is good to see such diversity in the room," says Campbell. "Whether you are involved in agriculture production or pursuing a career in agribuisness, your leadership will help drive the sector forward."

The main reason for the visit to GROWMARK was to get a better understanding of the co-operative model as well as GROWMARK’s leadership in the industry. After hearing from presenters about the co-operative model and GROWMARK’s initiatives in agronomy, energy, grain marketing, youth development and social media, the AALP Class 14 was given a tour of the GROWMARK distribution center. Pat Gallagher, GROWMARK Ontario logistics manager led the group and spoke about the complexity of crop protection and seed logistics, such as, the many regulatory agency compliance requirements and the state-of-the-art safe-storage practices.

Will Heeman, one of the AALP students present, was recognized as a graduate of the Co-operative Young Leaders Program in which GROWMARK supports. In 2007 Heeman was chosen to be the Ontario youth speaker at the GROWMARK’s Annual Meeting.

Pat Gallagher, GROWMARK Ontario logistics manager

gives tour of GROWMARK Ontario distribution centre.

AALP IS DELIVERED BY THE Rural Ontario Institute (ROI). Established in 1984, the program has graduated over 380 leaders who are now making a positive difference across Ontario and beyond.  Graduates use their increased skills and knowledge of the entire agri-food system to work with others to lead, direct and manage change within the industry. For more information visit http://www.aalp.on.ca/