Agronomy student Paul Skretting named Lethbridge Polytechnic valedictorian

When it came to his decision to pursue the Agriculture Sciences – Agronomy diploma, polytechnic officials say Skretting was inspired by his grandfather.

“My grandpa was a farmer, and he was the first person I ever worked for,” he says. “It kindled a joy and a yearning for knowledge in this industry. I have fond memories of spending weekends as a kid branding, fixing fences and freezing my fingers feeding cows in the winter.”

While Skretting says he experienced highlights of the Agriculture Sciences program “every week,” officials say he especially enjoyed time in the campus greenhouse, along with field trips and networking events such as Ag Expo, Western Tractor Days and the Irrigated Crop Production Update.

Kristy Vavra, Agriculture Sciences instructor, says Skretting has been an exceptional student from the beginning – contributing to class discussions, leading by example and creating a positive learning environment for his peers.

“Although he did not come from a direct farming background, his connection to his grandfather’s farm sparked interest in agriculture,” she says. “With his work ethic, integrity and passion for agriculture, Paul will make an impact in whatever area of the industry he chooses.”

Since working for his grandfather, polytechnic officials say Skretting has gained experience in the industry as an agriculture mechanic and, more recently, as an agronomist – a career he plans to continue after completing the polytechnic’s Bachelor of Agriculture Science post-diploma degree.

Institution officials say Skretting is grateful for the support he’s received along the way and would like to thank his family, friends and instructors for helping him reach this milestone. He may not consider himself a “typical” agriculture student, but according to officials, his journey shows there’s no single path into the industry – something he hopes future students will consider.

“Shoot for the moon,” he says. “You’ll never know if you enjoy it unless you give it a try.”

This year’s Spring Convocation ceremonies will be held at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Friday, May 22, in the Val Matteotti Gymnasium. For more information, go to lethpolytech.ca/convocation.

by LNN Staff

Agronomy student Paul Skretting named Lethbridge Polytechnic valedictorian

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