Agriculture Youth Summit
The Agriculture Youth Summit is a dynamic event bringing together high school students from across Kittitas County and Central Washington University to explore the future of agriculture in our region. Held annually in December at the Armory at the Kittitas County Fairgrounds, this summit connects students with industry leaders, career opportunities, and hands-on learning experiences. Through engaging discussions, networking, and interactive booths, the event aims to inspire the next generation of agricultural professionals while showcasing the vital role of agriculture in our community.
December 3, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. | The Armory
What is an Agriculture Youth Summit?
Discover real-world careers that power Kittitas County’s food and farm economy. The Agriculture Youth Summit connects high school juniors and seniors from across Kittitas County and Central Washington University students with local producers, agribusinesses, and industry partners for a hands-on morning of learning, demos, and networking.
What to Expect
- Interactive Skill Stations & Demos: Crop and livestock management, irrigation and water systems, soil health, ag tech/precision tools, food safety, and value-added products.
- Career Pathway Panels: Hear from farmers, veterinarians, processors, suppliers, conservation and natural resources professionals, and ag entrepreneurs.
- Workforce Readiness: Internship and seasonal job opportunities, résumé tips, and how to stand out when applying.
- Local Business Expo: Meet employers and organizations that keep the regional food system moving—from farm to market.
Who Should Attend
- Kittitas County high school juniors and seniors exploring agriculture, natural resources, biology, engineering, business, or trades.
- CWU students in agriculture-adjacent programs (environmental science, biology, business/supply chain, IT/data, public health, education, and more).
Learning Outcomes
- Identify multiple career paths in agriculture (production, animal science, ag tech, processing, distribution, marketing, conservation).
- Understand local education and training routes (CTE, certificates, apprenticeships, CWU programs).
- Make direct connections with employers for internships, job shadows, and capstone projects.
- Experience hands-on skills relevant to Kittitas County’s working landscapes.
2025 Agenda
2025 Guest Speaker
Representative Tom Dent — Washington State 13th Legislative District
Representative Tom Dent has devoted much of his life to serving the people and industries of the Columbia Basin. A lifelong resident of the region, he built his career as a professional pilot beginning in 1976 and later founded Tom Dent Aviation, providing aerial application, pilot services, and flight instruction to support local agriculture and industry. Today, he brings that deep agricultural and rural perspective to the Washington State Legislature as the 13th District’s state representative. Rep. Dent is known for his bipartisan approach and commitment to practical, commonsense solutions. He focuses on strengthening child care and foster care systems, improving mental health resources—especially for the agricultural community—supporting Washington’s farming and ranching families, and enhancing wildfire prevention and response. He advocates for efficient, accountable government and works to ensure that Washington remains a place where families and businesses can thrive. Representing communities across Kittitas, Grant, and Lincoln counties, Rep. Dent prides himself on accessibility and constituent service, encouraging residents to stay engaged and share their concerns.
2025 Field Trip Location
Central Washington Equine Hospital – Exceptional Care for Exceptional Horses
Based in Ellensburg, WA, Central Washington Equine Hospital (CWEH) is a premier equine veterinary facility serving horses across Washington state. With a 12,000-square-foot hospital located in downtown Ellensburg, CWEH offers cutting-edge medical care including three oversized exam rooms, a surgical suite, an indoor lameness evaluation area, and a six-stall intensive care unit—all designed to ensure the highest level of care for equine patients. CWEH’s team of experienced veterinarians and support staff specialize in sports medicine, reproductive services, surgery, rehabilitation, and more. The hospital provides 24/7 emergency care, supporting horse owners whenever urgent medical attention is needed. Founded in 2020 by Dr. Joey Bergevin, CWEH began as a small, mobile practice operating out of a garage and trailer on the Bergevin family farm in western Ellensburg. With the support of his wife, Cassie Bergevin, veterinary technician Abby Slyfield, and the local community, the practice grew rapidly. By 2022, CWEH opened its fully equipped facility in downtown Ellensburg, becoming a trusted referral center serving central and western Washington. Today, CWEH has expanded into a multi-doctor, multi-service practice, committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care to horses and their owners. The team continues to uphold the hospital’s mission of excellence in equine health, offering personalized care and advanced treatment options.
2025 Speaker Panel
Land Stewardship and Conservation Presentation
Damon Roberts, Department of Ecology
Roza Irrigation District
Joe Rotter, Red's Fly Shop
2025 Participating Businesses
2025 Lunch Speaker
Washington State Potato Commission
The Washington State Potato Commission represents and advocates for Washington’s potato growers, supporting an industry that produces some of the highest-quality potatoes in the world. Established to strengthen, protect, and promote the state’s potato sector, the Commission leads research investments, grower education, sustainability initiatives, international market development, and consumer outreach. Through programs such as the award-winning Washington Grown series, Potato Academy, nutrition and STEM education for students, and statewide promotional events, WSPC works to connect consumers with the farmers who grow the food on their tables. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and the long-term vitality of family farms, the Commission is dedicated to ensuring that Washington potatoes remain a nutritious, affordable, and essential part of both local and global food systems.
2025 Lunch Caterer
Cascade Mountain Grilling
Cascade Mountain Grilling has been serving Ellensburg and the surrounding region for three generations, bringing a legacy of catering expertise to weddings, corporate events, private parties and more. Known for their approachable menu, professional presentation and deep local roots, they combine homestyle comfort with event-level polish. From their full-service set-ups to their dedicated customer care, they offer a reliable, family-run catering solution that supports everything from casual barbeque-style gatherings to more formal celebrations.
Photos from 2024 Agriculture Youth Summit by Rick May Photos