Students in Lakeland College’s bachelor of agriculture technology (BAT) program are getting ready to highlight how modern farming is evolving. On April 9, they will host Farm 4.0: From Dirt to Data, a student‑led event aimed at connecting agricultural producers with the fast‑growing world of ag technology.
Now in its fourth year, Farm 4.0 brings together local producers, industry organizations, and leading tech companies at the Vermilion Regional Centre. The event focuses on how new tools and data‑driven systems can help build sustainable farming practices—balancing profitability with environmental responsibility.
The full‑day showcase includes live demonstrations of farm equipment, emerging technologies, and machinery, as well as a trade show featuring the latest innovations available to producers.
This year’s keynote speaker is Kaitlyn Kitzan, founder of Kitzan Strategic Solutions, recognized for her work helping transform ideas into real‑world impact in agriculture, rural development, and community leadership.
Students will also present the findings of their practicum projects, with topics including:
- Ag Tech Today & Tomorrow
- Precision Farming in the Real World
- Efficiency, Sustainability & Smarter Management
- Livestock Tech: Efficiency Starts Here
- Seeing the Field Differently: NDVI and Beyond
For BAT student Samantha Bracken, the event represents the result of months of collaboration and effort.
“Farm 4.0 has been our baby all semester, and we are so excited to see all our hard work come together and talk to industry professionals,” Bracken said. “By creating a collaborative environment for dialogue and innovation, Farm 4.0 not only showcases the next generation of agricultural advancements but also highlights the leadership and initiative of students driving the future of agriculture.”
Farm 4.0 is free and open to the public. It runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on April 9 at the Vermilion Regional Centre.
