As we continue our conversation on AI, Data Centres and Agriculture in Western Canada and what AI usage looks like for both the consumer and the farmer, we dig in a little further on resource allocation and consequence. Our guests David Gerhard and Robert Saik look at the realistic fears presented by those most affected and long-term predictions on how data centres will affect rural communities, Western Canada’s economy, and the industry at large.

Is there enough water to allocate between new data centre usage and the expansive agricultural industry? What does addressing realistic fears from industry leaders and the farmers most affected look like and how do we square the circle of a booming industry? What does the future of AI hold for farmers and their land? On this episode we continue to dig in on AI, Data Centres and Agriculture.

Meet Our Guests

David Gerhard: Head of Computer Science University of Manitoba

Dr. David Gerhard is Professor and Head of Computer Science at the University of Manitoba. With more than two decades of experience in technology, education, and research, he specializes in artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and human-computer interaction. Known for making complex technology topics accessible and engaging, David is a sought-after speaker who helps people understand how emerging technologies are shaping the way we live, work, and learn. David brings a grounded perspective on tech advancements to people from all different walks of life. Between TED talks and media coverage on savvy social media consumption, David connects with people in a real and approachable way.

Robert Saik: Professional Agrologist and CEO of T1 Technology Corporation

Robert Saik is a distinguished agrologist, entrepreneur, and international consultant with over forty years of experience in the agriculture industry. In 2021, he was recognized as one of Canada’s Top 50 Most Influential Agriculture Leaders and one of Canada’s Top 10 Ag Mentors. He is the founder and CEO of T1 Technology Corporation which is the developer of AGvisorPRO a global mobile connectivity platform for agriculture as well as visorPRO.ai a solution leverage AI in the farm equipment and construction sectors. Robert has worked with prominent figures, including Nigeria's Minister of Agriculture and Bill Gates, and was one of only three private citizens to address the 2020 FAO-UN High Level Special Event on agriculture sustainability.

About UFA

Founded in 1909, UFA Co-operative Limited is an Alberta-based agricultural co-operative with more than 125,000 member-owners. UFA’s network comprises more than 121 bulk fuel and Cardlock Petroleum locations, 35 Farm & Ranch Supply stores and a support office in Calgary, AB. Independent Petroleum Agents and over 1,200 UFA employees provide products, services and agricultural solutions to farmers, ranchers, members and commercial customers in Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan. UFA has been named the 2026 Large Co-operative of the Year by Co-operatives and Mutuals Canada (CMC), a national recognition that celebrates co-operatives making a meaningful contribution to communities and co-operatives and mutuals across Canada. Learn more at UFA.com.

About Your Host

Don Shafer, PhD, is an award winning broadcaster, veteran media executive, and recipient of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame’s Lifetime Achievement Award. He holds a PhD in Social Justice, bringing a rare blend of industry expertise and academic insight to the evolving media landscape.

Credits

Host: Don Shafer, PhD
Guests: David Gerhard, Robert Saik
Senior Writer: Eric La Febre
Showrunner: Jessica Grajczyk
Audio Producer: Scott Whittaker
Executive Producer: Jennifer Smith
Contributor: Trish Nixon