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Growing next-gen indoor farmers through hands-on CEA education
Those working in the commercial CEA industry require some knowledge of chemistry, engineering, plant pathology, and physiology, as well as foundations in hydroponic growing.
Rising populations and lack of access to arable land are other major driving factors for job growth within the CEA sector, but the ratio of training opportunities in hydroponics for business versus job availability is very limited. As the industry develops, it’s crucial that training opportunities and education are there to support it.
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At ZipGrow Inc., we want to be part of the solution.
In the fall of 2022, ZipGrow partnered with St.Lawrence College to host a Controlled Environment Cultivation Program. Essentially a pilot course, this eightweek program provided both in-class and lab learning to students to prepare individuals for a career in indoor farms and greenhouses that produce food, cannabis, or ornamental crops.
The curriculum included lessons on; Controlled Environment Crops, CEA Production Method, Integrated Pest Management, Plant Propagation, Nutrients, Fertilizers, Water Quality, business modeling, and more…
The course structure was split between in-class lessons at St.Lawrence College and ZipGrow Inc. HQ, instructed by a myriad of industry professionals from the Eastern Ontario region and ZipGrow Inc team experts.
It covered all types of hydroponics, including DWC, drip irrigation, and aquaponic systems.
We are open to further partnerships to help support the next generation of indoor farmers. Who is with us?
