Join us for our first luncheon of 2026 as we kick off the new year with timely conversation and valuable networking opportunities.

On January 15 for our  our first luncheon of 2026, Future of Agriculture - A Conversation with Jacqueline Keena

Brandon’s agricultural community is evolving rapidly and the next decade will bring changes unlike anything we’ve seen before. At this special event, join Jacqueline Keena, managing director of the Enterprise Machine Learning Initiative (EMILI), for an engaging and forward-looking conversation on what the future of agriculture means for producers, businesses, and rural communities across Westman. She is a professional agrologist (P.Ag.) and holds degrees in agribusiness and public policy. Jacqueline is also a vice-chair for Assiniboine Credit Union and past Chair of the Manitoba Women's Enterprise Centre. In 2023, Jacqueline was appointed to serve on the Premier’s Business and Jobs Council in Manitoba, where she chairs the AI, Technology and Jobs committee.

Jacqueline will open with a dynamic keynote exploring emerging trends, real-world innovations from Innovation Farms, and the technologies shaping tomorrow’s operations. From data-driven decision-making to practical tools that boost productivity, she’ll highlight what’s coming next, and what it means for local producers today.

The session continues with a fireside chat featuring Ray Bouchard, EMILI Board Chair and President & CEO of Enns Brothers. Ray has been involved in the agriculture industry for over 40 years and served as director, then president of the Canadian Association of Agricultural Retailers. Ray’s passion and vision for the future of Canadian agriculture is ambitious as he sees the long-term benefits for Canadians, the economy and the environment. Ray is committed to life-long learning and in 2017 received the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors.


Together, they’ll dig into the questions top of mind for farmers and ag professionals.

• How will technology reshape Prairie farming?
• What innovations are already working in our region?
• How can producers stay resilient in the face of climate and market pressures?
• What skills and tools will the next generation need?

This is a rare opportunity to hear directly from two leaders at the centre of Canada’s ag-innovation landscape, right here in Brandon.

Whether you’re a producer, agri-business professional, student, or simply passionate about the future of rural Manitoba, this session offers insight, inspiration, and actionable ideas you can take back to your farm or business.

Don’t miss this timely conversation about where agriculture is heading and how Westman can lead the way. Registration closes Jan. 12 at 11:30 a.m.

Connect with local business leaders and industry professionals as we dig into one of the region’s most vital sectors.

Thank you to our Host Sponsor: