REALTOR® Profile
Blane Friesen grew up on a mixed farm in Saskatchewan, where grain, cattle, hogs, horses and sheep were part of everyday life. From an early age, farming instilled in him a strong work ethic, respect for land and livestock and an appreciation for the business realities of agriculture. At just 19 years old, Blane began his entrepreneurial journey as a professional farrier. Over the next 21 years, he built a respected career while following the chuckwagon, rodeo and show horse circuits. Those years immersed him not only among exceptional horsemen and women, but also alongside highly driven, business-minded entrepreneurs - shaping his approach to work, service and long-term relationships. As the physical demands farrier work began to take a toll, Blane made a strategic pivot in 2017. He entered the auction industry by attending the Western College of Auctioneering in Billings, Montana, followed by advanced training through the Professional Ringmen Institute. He further expanded his professional credentials by becoming a Graduate of Personal Property Appraisals, strengthening his expertise in asset valuation across multiple sectors. Blane spent several years auctioneering a wide range of sales - including miscellaneous goods, automobiles, farm and heavy equipment and livestock - while continuing to work as a farrier during the weekdays. The disruptions of 2020 significantly impacted live auctions, prompting Blane to transition into online auction sales and representation, further expanding his understanding of digital platforms and modern marketing strategies. In 2022, facing the reality that ongoing wrist issues would require surgery and ultimately bring his farrier career to an end, Blane transitioned to real estate. Specializing in agricultural and acreage properties, his lifelong connection to farming and ranching naturally carried into his real estate practice, where land value, improvements, operations and practical use matter as much as location. Now in 2026, with decades of hands-on agricultural experience and a diverse professional background in auctioneering, appraisals and real estate, Blane has launched his own team under IronBack.AG - Agricultural & Residential Real Estate, based in Central Alberta but willing to travel to help farmers and ranchers buy and sell with confidence. IronBack.AG is more than a real estate brand - it is a comprehensive agricultural solutions platform. Look for the IronBack.AG website in spring 2026, IronBack.AG will bring together Real Estate Services, Agricultural Asset Appraisals, Online Auctions, Fundraising Auctioneering and Chuckwagon & Rodeo Announcing under one unified operation, built to serve rural property owners, producers and investors with integrity, clarity and real-world experience. IronBack.AG Auction platform will be the Online Property Auction hub for all CIR Realty Agents across Alberta.