2026 Summer Intern’s Key Takeaways

We appreciate all that the 2026 intern cohort contributed this summer. We wish them all the best and look forward to seeing how they apply what they learned in their future endeavours.

Canfax Intern: Megan Conners

My biggest takeaway from this summer is the importance of collecting data and its use within the industry. Developing the skills to analyze historical charts, market trends, and interpret how factors beyond this industry can still influence agriculture markets and decisions has been extremely beneficial. This experience has highlighted the complexity of the industry and how reliant one division's choice can be on another. I have enjoyed learning the things I have and applying these skills to better understanding how producers can utilize the information in decision making.  

An additional takeaway from this summer is the importance of taking every opportunity I was offered. Through out these four months, I have met so many people and made many important connections in the industry. You never know what might come of simply introducing yourself or engaging in conversation. 

CCA Intern: Reegan Frey

This internship provided valuable personal and professional growth opportunities that have strengthened both my skills and my understanding of the Canadian beef industry.

One of the most important lessons I learned was the value of effective communication. Whether writing articles, creating social media content, or speaking with consumers at the Calgary Stampede, I developed a greater ability to transparently communicate and explain agricultural topics to a diverse consumer audience.

I also gained a deeper understanding of agricultural policy, advocacy, and industry leadership. Through policy monitoring and exposure to CCA initiatives, I learned how producer organizations work to represent and support cattle producers while addressing industry challenges and opportunities. 

Another key takeaway was the importance of collaboration and relationship-building. Working alongside staff, industry leaders, producers, youth participants, and mentors helped me expand my professional network and demonstrated the importance of partnerships in advancing industry goals.

Finally, this experience reinforced my passion for the agriculture and livestock sectors. The opportunities to contribute to meaningful projects, engage with producers, and learn from industry professionals increased my confidence and confirmed my interest in pursuing a career in the beef industry.

As I move forward in my education and career, I will carry these experiences, skills, and connections with me and continue building on the foundation established during my time with the Canadian Cattle Association.

BCRC Intern: Taylor Wessing

I have learned so much this summer through my role with the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC), so when I was asked to sum it up into a few key takeaways, I really had to think about it. After some consideration, there were a few things that I think will stick with me throughout my career—strengthening both my professional skillset and influencing my broader outlook on learning and growth.

The systems and functionality of the BCRC team has further developed my appreciation for collaboration—diverse perspectives and conversations drive high-quality results. I appreciate the dedication the team has to creating accessible resources for producers, and collaboration is a big part of this. I think that is a great skill and value that I hope to carry with me as I move forward. 

Additionally, from talking with team members and other industry professionals, I have further discovered that almost nobody has had a straight path to their current role, and everybody’s career journey looks different. There are many different opportunities and experiences that have shaped the professionals I had the chance to work with. This is something that will help me navigate the next steps in my career journey. 

And last, but certainly not least, stay curious. The curiosity that fills the team has reminded me how important it is to keep learning. I have always enjoyed asking questions and expanding my knowledge, seeing that mindset consistently demonstrated by experienced professionals has reminded me that curiosity is not just a skill, but a habit I want to continue developing throughout my career.