Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program

About                          

The Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP) is an experiential executive leadership program for those who want to shape the future of the agriculture and food industry and make a positive difference in rural communities across Ontario. Over two fall/winter periods participants take part in seminars and study tours(North American/International) culminating in a spring graduation.

Each Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program Class is created with attention to the diversity of participants. Participants are chosen so that peer-to-peer mentorship, interrelationships and a broad network are developed. Class participants are chosen for their different backgrounds, offering unique viewpoints and enabling thought-provoking, balanced discussion of critical issues. 

The curriculum includes a series of seminars, study tours – North American and international – and small group issues analysis projects for agriculture, food and rural community clients. There is approximately 45 days of in-session programming. Program focus is on building foundational skills and providing the context for practicing them in a safe but challenging environment. Curriculum adapts with relevant topics for each class to promote new multi-stakeholder approaches while developing critical self-analysis.

Study topics include government and political systems, national and international trade, communication and organization skills, self-awareness and interrelationships, negotiation and problem solving, consumers and social license, media relations, agri-food trends, globalization and the dynamics of change. 

Experts guide participants to apply forward-thinking leadership skills through interactive workshops. With over 500 alumni across Ontario, access to advanced talent, cutting-edge technology and lesson-sharing site visits put you on a trajectory to success and fulfilment.

If you are looking to be inspired by change agents, to open your mind to seeing things differently and to discover what is next for you, join the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program to become part of a network of catalysts driving the future of agriculture, food and rural communities.

For more detailed program and interview information, please read AALP Orientation/Interview and FAQ. 

If you would like to apply to the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program please contact Program Director, Gabrielle Ferguson at gferguson@ruralontarioinstitute.ca.

Interested in the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program, but not sure it's for you? These two short videos profile alumni and supporters of the program, giving you a glimpse into what AALP can do for you - and what you will be able to do for the industry.