During Manitoba Ag Days, from January 20 to 22 in Brandon, Agriculture in the Classroom – Manitoba (AITC-M) will transform the Dome Building, just outside the Keystone Centre, into an interactive agriculture education and engagement hub.
Ag Days attendees, industry partners, and the public are invited to participate in hands-on activities, enjoy complimentary refreshments, and learn how agricultural education is helping prepare the next generation of Manitoba’s ag and agri-food workforce.
“Agriculture is evolving rapidly, and the expectations placed on our industry are growing,” says Katharine Cherewyk, Executive Director of AITC-M. “The Dome gives people a chance to step away from the trade show floor, have meaningful conversations, and see how education plays a critical role in the future of agriculture.”
As a non-profit, charitable organization, AITC-M connects Kindergarten to Grade 12 students with agriculture through classroom learning resources, experiential programs, and career exploration opportunities. Working alongside farmers, producers, agribusinesses, educators, and industry leaders, the organization helps youth understand where their food comes from, how agriculture impacts their daily lives, and the wide range of careers available across Manitoba’s ag and agri-food sector.
“Agriculture today is deeply rooted in science, technology, engineering, and math,” says Cherewyk. “If we want a strong, skilled workforce in the future, we need to help young people see agriculture as innovative, relevant, and full of opportunity.”
Inside the Dome, visitors can explore the Ag-tivity Challenge, featuring four interactive stations focused on food, feed, fibre, and fuel. Attendees can also enjoy free coffee and snacks, courtesy of Brandon McDonald’s, and enter prize draws, including Winnipeg Blue Bombers tickets and a hotel stay for Manitoba Ag Days 2027.
The Dome also serves as the launch point for AgVenture, AITC-M’s flagship career exploration program delivered during Ag Days. More than 1,200 students will begin their day at the Dome before heading to the Keystone Centre to visit participating exhibitors’ booths and experience agricultural careers firsthand.
The Dome experience is made possible through the generous support of community and industry partners, including the Manitoba Ag Days, Brandon & Area Community Foundation, CKLQ, the McCain Foundation, Agriculture in the Classroom – Canada, Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, Government of Manitoba, Enns Brothers, and Greenvalley Equipment.
“The challenges facing agriculture won’t fix themselves,” Cherewyk adds. “Education is how we respond, and partnership is how we move forward. If the future of agriculture matters to you, the Dome is where that conversation starts.”
The Dome will be open January 20 to 22, from 12pm to 5pm, just outside the Keystone Centre during Manitoba Ag Days.
