Data Centres and AI Expansion: The Future of Farmland Part 1

In the face of increasing global interest in artificial intelligence, data centres that train and run complex artificial intelligence models are beginning to pop up in rural communities. In this Part 1 of a two-part conversation, David Gerhard and Robert Saik dig into the realities of data centre expansion, why Western Canada is such an attractive location for these facilities, and the impact of AI on agriculture in general.

What do data centres do exactly and how much power do they need to run? What fears do people have when it comes to new data centres in their communities? How do we have an earnest conversation between those on either side of the argument and address the pros and cons in a balanced way? On this episode, we begin to dig in on AI, Data Centers 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

#podcast #farming #datadentres