The 2025 Summer Institute brought together a dynamic group of educators and university students for an unforgettable week of immersive agricultural learning in the Fraser Valley!

This week-long course offered hands-on experiences, farm tours, expert presentations, and real-world food education, all while building lasting connections across the province.

A Week of Meaningful Experiences

Participants explored BC’s food systems firsthand with engaging visits to Gravis Greenhouses, WestBerry Farm, Sardis Secondary School’s farm, and more. Each day featured:

• Chef-led cooking demos using local ingredients
• Workshops on food literacy and Indigenous food systems
• Inspiring guest speakers from across BC’s agriculture and food sectors
• Farm visits for real-world learning in action

Participants left with fresh ideas, deepened knowledge, and a renewed sense of purpose to bring agriculture into their future classrooms and communities. And yes… this year’s surprise highlight? A lost phone in a carrot field that turned into a full-group search party. If that doesn’t scream team bonding, we don’t know what does!

Chef Demos with Local BC Products

Participants had the chance to cook alongside BCAITC’s Chef Trevor Randle and Chef Brent McGimpsey, learning kitchen techniques and preparing delicious meals with fresh, BC-grown ingredients. These chef-led sessions showcased the power of integrating local food and agriculture into Culinary Arts and Home Economics programs.

Contest Time!

To keep spirits high and creativity flowing, participants took part in daily contests—sharing course highlights and fun moments for a chance to win prizes! From thoughtful agriculture education reflections to team selfies, the entries brought energy and connection throughout the week.

Thank You!

We’re incredibly proud of this year’s cohort and their dedication to agricultural education. A special shout-out to:

• Our generous host farms and donors
• Our chefs who nourished us
• The educators and presenters who brought wealth of knowledge and expertise
• And the student who created a jaw-dropping poster in a single afternoon!

The Summer Institute continues to be a cornerstone of BCAITC’s mission to inspire the next generation of agriculture advocates, educators, and food system leaders, with the help of our sponsors and partners.