From Steers to STEM: Youth Programs Shine at the 2025 Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede isn’t just The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth — it’s also a launchpad for future leaders, innovators and agri-champions. In 2025, four dynamic youth programs take centre stage, blending tradition with innovation through high-stakes competition, hands-on learning and unforgettable experiences. Agriculture remains at the heart of the Stampede, along with a deep commitment to supporting the next generation of advocates.

New for 2025: Youth Veterinary Science Challenge

This isn’t your average science fair. Last week, June 6-7, the Calgary Stampede collaborated with the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine to host the first-ever Youth Veterinary Science Challenge, an immersive, hands-on experience for Grade 9–12 students who dream of a future in animal science.

During the two-day competition, 50 students faced off head-to-head in labs, diagnostics and real-world veterinary challenges — all while competing for cash prizes and rubbing elbows with the pros at Alberta’s only veterinary school. For Kate Albrecht, a Grade 11 student who lives on a cow-calf operation just outside of Edmonton, participating in the event provided a great opportunity for her to explore a career in animal science — something she hopes to pursue in her post-secondary studies.

“I really appreciated that they took the time to make the laboratory setting as realistic as they could for us,” says Albrecht, who was also selected as one of the Stampede’s OH Branded Beef Youth Ambassadors for 2025. “I particularly enjoyed the suturing skills station, where I got to try suturing for myself after they walked us through what to do!”

Albrecht was also part of the team that ultimately won the inaugural Youth Veterinary Science Challenge, a victory that further fuelled her passion for the field. The winning team, coached by Piper Radostits, also included Cierra Hathaway, Ruo Han Dong, Joshua Han and Alisha Standing. Find the full results of the competition here.

Designed to be both educational and inspiring, the event provided a front-row seat to the field of animal science, showcasing the critical role animal health plays in agriculture.

OH Ranch Branded Beef Youth Ambassadors – Class of 2024 Wraps Up July 12

The OH Ranch Branded Beef Youth Ambassador Program is back for its second year! This one-of-a-kind program — the first of its kind in Canada — offers a rewarding opportunity for youth ages 14-18 to immerse themselves in Alberta’s rich livestock heritage.

Launched in the fall of 2023, the program blends hands-on agricultural experience with leadership development by selecting 12 Ambassadors to each raise a steer born on the Stampede’s historic OH Ranch. Supported by Stampede experts, industry professionals and key Stampede partners, participants gain valuable skills in animal care, cattle management and agricultural business over several months.

Hunter Harris, 17, from Drayton Valley, Alta., jumped at the chance to apply to be an Ambassador after a neighbour, knowing Hunter’s strong interest in cattle showing, recommended the opportunity to him after learning about it through word of mouth.

“I’ve always been drawn to the cattle industry, and I loved the competitive aspect of showing, but I wished I could do more to get involved,” says Harris, explaining what motivated him to apply for the program. “I was ecstatic to find out that I was chosen! I feel a deep sense of responsibility to be a good livestock producer and I’m proud to represent the industry.”

The program culminates on July 12, at the Junior Steer Classic and the International Livestock Auctioneer Championship in the Nutrien Western Event Centre during Stampede 2025, where the OH Ranch steers are sold and the Ambassadors reap the rewards of their hard work.

Support these rising stars — learn more about the program and invest in Alberta’s agricultural future by pre-registering to buy a steer here.

Robot Rodeo – July 7-9

Agriculture meets innovation with the return of the Robot Rodeo to Stampede, featuring a high-tech twist: autonomous innovation meets agricultural grit. Taking place from July 7 to 9 in the BMO Centre on Stampede Park, this exciting competition is more than a spectacle — it’s a glimpse into how technology is transforming the future of food, farming, and sustainability. With $10,000 in cash prizes on the line, the competition isn’t just about winning — it’s about showcasing how STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) fuels the future of food production.

Got a team? Register before June 15! The robot kit (V5 Competition Super Kit) is included in the $2,000 entry fee. Find more information and register online here.

Youth Agriculture Speaking Championships presented by BURNCO – July 11-12

Words matter — especially when they’re shaping the future of farming. Back for its second year, the Youth Agriculture Speaking Championships presented by BURNCO, gives youth aged 11-24 the chance to take the mic and speak up for agriculture.

Hosted in partnership with Alberta Young Speakers for Agriculture during Stampede 2025, competitors deliver powerful five- to seven-minute speeches on timely topics such as the use of AI in farming, Canada’s role in global agri-trade, the importance of agricultural education, debunking industry myths and more.

This is where passionate youth become powerful advocates — and walk away with their share of $15,000 in prizes and awards, as well as travel credit for finalists to compete at the Canadian Youth Speakers for Agriculture Finals in Toronto. Preliminary rounds will take place on Friday, July 11 at 10 a.m., with one held at Olds College and another in the BMO Centre on Stampede Park. The top five in each age division — Junior (11–15) and Senior (16–24) — will advance to the finals on Saturday, July 12 at noon in the BMO Centre.

All youth voices are welcome, regardless of their background in agriculture. Only a willingness to learn and an ability to speak on topics related to agri-tech, agri-food or the future of farming is required. Register to compete by June 20! Find more information and register online here.

Ignite Your Future at the Calgary Stampede 2025 Whether you’re wrangling cattle, coding robots or commanding the stage, the Calgary Stampede is serves as a springboard for countless youth. From leadership and learning to hands-on tech, this year’s Stampede youth programs offer every aspiring ag-vocate, innovator and trailblazer a chance to shine.

About the Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede celebrates the people, the animals, the land, the traditions and the values that make up the unique spirit of the west. The Calgary Stampede contributes to the quality of life in Calgary and southern Alberta through our world-renowned Stampede, year-round facilities, western events and several youth and agriculture programs. Exemplifying the theme We’re Greatest Together, we are a volunteer-supported, not-for-profit community organization that preserves and celebrates our western heritage, cultures and community spirit. All revenue is reinvested into Calgary Stampede programs and facilities.

For more information, please contact:

Media Relations
Calgary Stampede
E media.relations@calgarystampede.com