Mette Ching
Mette Ching, Prince Edward Island
Nominated by the PEI Institute of Agrologists
Growing up along the Fraser River in British Columbia, Mette Ching developed a deep appreciation for rural life and a love of animals, which led her to pursue a career in agriculture. She earned a degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of British Columbia in 1970 and embarked on a professional path that would span over five decades and significantly shape the agricultural landscape of Prince Edward Island.
Mette began her career as a professional agrologist specializing in farm business management during a time of transition in Canadian agriculture. When she joined the PEI Department of Agriculture as a farm business representative, she was among the few female professional agrologists in the province. With the agricultural sector facing challenges such as energy crises, low commodity prices, and structural change, Mette played a vital role in supporting producers through the development of farm business management programs at both the federal and provincial levels.
Originally intending to stay on PEI for just two years, Mette鈥檚 course changed when she married Gordon Ching in 1971 and joined the family operation, Black Pond Farms Ltd. Together, they transformed the farm from a small mixed operation into a highly specialized 700-acre potato farm known for innovation and environmental stewardship. The farm received numerous accolades, including the CM MacLean Top Grower Award (1975) and the PEI Soil Conservationist of the Year Award (1992).
Beyond the farm gate, Mette has been a dedicated and tireless leader in the agricultural community. A strong believer in youth development, she was a long-time leader in the Eastern Kings 4-H Club and contributed extensively to the Eastern Kings Exhibition Association.听
In 1998, Mette made history as the first female president of the PEI Federation of Agriculture, where she was instrumental in securing stable funding and strengthening the organization鈥檚 long-term viability. Her leadership opened doors for other women in agriculture, including national leaders such as Mary Robinson, former president of both the PEI Federation of Agriculture and subsequently the Canadian Federation of Agriculture.
Mette鈥檚 commitment to the profession of agrology is equally commendable. She served as president of the PEI Institute of Agrologists (2008鈥�2010), registrar for six years, and was a founding member of the Canadian Farm Business Management Council in 1992. Her influence extended beyond agriculture into health care as well, serving on the Board of Directors of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital for six years.
Over 50 years, Mette Ching has demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, and service in agriculture. Her contributions have not only strengthened the farming industry on PEI but have also inspired and empowered a generation of women to pursue leadership roles in agriculture. She continues to be a role model, mentor, and trailblazer whose legacy will endure across the sector.
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