MHC receives AREF funding to support applied agricultural research and student training
Medicine Hat College (MHC) has received a $25,000 grant from the Alberta Real Estate Foundation (AREF) to support applied research in agriculture. The funding will support a new project through the Centre for Innovation (C4i) that combines learner training with real-world field work.
“We’re proud to invest in initiatives that support responsible land use and create lasting benefits for Albertans,” said Josh Traptow, Executive Director of the AREF. “This project demonstrates how education, research and technology can come together to address real-world challenges while building local capacity. By providing students with hands-on experience and supporting research that helps producers make informed decisions, MHC is strengthening the knowledge and skills needed to steward Alberta's land and resources for the future.”
The project will support efficient land use and resource management across southeastern Alberta by placing drone technology in the hands of student researchers. Working in partnership with local producers, researchers will collect data on soil conditions, crop performance and water use to build on existing practices and provide field-level insights that support ongoing decision-making.
The research team prepares their equipment in the back of the C4i truck.
“This project brings together students, technology and industry to address real challenges in our region,” said Chelsey Ehresman, Manager of C4i. “By working directly in the field with producers, participants gain meaningful experience while contributing to research that has practical value.”
Two student research assistants have been trained and certified in drone operations. The work builds technical and professional skills through hands-on field work and collaboration. The opportunity is open to learners from multiple disciplines, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of modern agriculture.
C4i research technician Jonathan Gourlay, along with research assistants Nitin Nitin and Eva Chartrand, conduct a drone flight during field research.
“Working with real producers changes how people learn,” Ehresman added. “They see how data influences decisions in real time and develop the skills to apply and communicate that information effectively.”
The project builds on C4i’s growing applied research capacity while responding to a need for timely, high-quality agricultural data. It will also help students develop in-demand skills and prepare for careers in the region.
“Working in the field and using drone technology for research was very exciting for me,” said Nitin Nitin, a recent graduate of MHC. “I’m gaining experience as a beginner in this industry while working with a team like C4i that is focused on innovation. This project is opening more opportunities for me while I continue to build technical and teamwork skills in agricultural technology.”
Nitin Nitin, recent MHC graduate and C4i research assistant, who is one of two researchers involved in the project which is supported by the AREF.
Support from the AREF highlights a shared commitment to responsible land use and building knowledge and skills for the future.
The project will run from May through the fall, with findings shared through digital content and presentations to producers and partners.
Interested in how applied research is creating impact across our region? Learn more about the Centre for Innovation at www.mhc.ab.ca.