Throughout the week, students learn the basic principles of data science and ag technology through a series of guest speakers, demos, and lessons, culminating in a final presentation to a panel of industry professionals. Students also get the opportunity to experience what it’s like to attend college as a fulltime student living on campus at Centennial Village.
As part of the camp curriculum, students also have the opportunity to spend two afternoons exploring AgSmart, an outdoor educational agriculture expo featuring live equipment and technology demonstrations, educational sessions and exhibits discussing emerging trends in the agriculture industry. AgSmart 2022 takes place August 9 to 10, 2022 on the Olds College Smart Farm.
Piloted in 2021, the camp was developed in partnership with Calgary-based management consulting and analytics firm — Raven Bay, after they were inspired by a program offered in Maryland, United States — the Data Science Camp Inc (DSCI).
“With increasing advancements in technology, industry is focused more than ever on data informed decision making. Students with developed critical thinking and data literacy skills have a significant advantage over their peers upon entering the workforce, ” comments Denise Tsang, Director, Business Development, Raven Bay. “DSCI changed the trajectory of so many students by showing them the opportunities available in the agriculture technology industry. Raven Bay wanted to offer the same for the youth in Canada. It was a natural fit to partner with Olds College and AgSmart to deliver this experiential learning opportunity."
During its inaugural year, the camp hosted 18 students from all over Alberta and Saskatchewan, including rural communities and urban centers like Calgary and Lethbridge.
As an added incentive, students who attend the Ag Data Science Camp and enroll as a full-time student in any ag tech program at Olds College are qualified to apply for the Ag Data Science Camp Award and receive a $1,500 tuition credit.
Applications are open, with an extended deadline of June 20, 2022 to apply. With limited spots available, applicants are selected based on their short essay or video, along with meeting the minimum recommended on-track criteria and the endorsement from their school administrator. For more information, visit oldscollege.ca/agdatacamp.