Lethbridge, Alta. (Rural Roots Canada) — Lethbridge Polytechnic agronomy student Paul Skretting served as this year’s valedictorian for its spring 2026 convocation.
Skretting, who is completing a diploma in agriculture sciences, led the graduating class and delivered the valedictory address during the afternoon ceremony on May 22.
“I was shocked,” he said. “I am not your typical ag student because I don’t come from a farm, so to graduate at the top of the class is quite an achievement for me.”
Born and raised in Lethbridge, Skretting said his path into agriculture began with his grandfather, who farmed in the area. As a teenager, he spent weekends helping out on the farm, gaining early experience that would shape his career interests.
“My grandpa was the first person I ever worked for,” he said. “That’s kind of what started my interest in agriculture.”
He later worked as an agriculture mechanic apprentice before enrolling at the polytechnic, gaining hands-on experience that complemented his studies.
Skretting said the program helped build his confidence in the industry, especially as someone without a traditional farming background.
First-year courses introduced foundational topics, while the second year focused on more specialized areas such as crop production, irrigation and pest management.
“It kind of gives you a good baseline when you enter the workforce,” said Skretting.
He said time in the campus greenhouse, along with industry events like Ag Expo and Western Tractor Days, stood out during his studies. Those experiences helped him connect classroom learning with real-world applications and build industry connections.
READ MORE: Chatsworth Farm wins international agritourism award
Instructor Kristy Vavra said Skretting stood out early in the program for his work ethic and leadership in the classroom.
“With his work ethic, integrity and passion for agriculture, Paul will make an impact in whatever area of the industry he chooses,” said Vavra.
Skretting said being named valedictorian is humbling and reflects the support he received from instructors, family and mentors along the way.
He also sees the recognition as a way to bring more attention to the role of agriculture.
“We’re feeding the world in this industry,” he said. “More awareness can help show the positives of agriculture.”
After graduation, Skretting plans to continue working as a summer student agronomist before returning to school in the fall to complete a Bachelor of Agriculture Science degree.
He said his experience shows there is more than one way into the industry and encourages others without a farming background to consider it.
“You can start without knowing anything and pick it up pretty quickly,” he said. “As long as you’re willing to learn and be open to new experiences, there are plenty of opportunities.”
Photo Credit: Lethbridge Polytechnic
