The California Farm Academy Apprenticeship Program trains individuals for farm management jobs by providing practical experience, valuable skills, connections to farmer mentors, and an industry-recognized credential. The Apprenticeship Program connects aspiring farm managers with established farmers who provide a space and opportunity to develop and practice the skills needed for a career in farm management. This practical, hands-on program provides a well-rounded, real-world educational experience that you can’t get in a traditional classroom.
The Apprenticeship Program is a formal apprenticeship registered with the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards that combines paid on-the-job training with job-related instruction. The program lasts approximately two years. During this time, apprentices complete 3,000 hours of paid on-the-job training at a farm and 250 hours of free related supplemental instruction in ag production, leadership and management. In some cases, coursework may be tailored to fit the apprentice’s specific career goals.
To ensure apprentices are ready for these advanced topics in farm management, 12 months of prior farm work experience is required to enter the program. Apprentices must also be 18 or older, currently reside in California, be eligible to work in the United States, have a high school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent, and have a valid U.S. Driver's License.
The California Farm Academy Apprenticeship is a Veterans Administration-approved training program and waives the experience requirement to encourage veterans to apply. Eligible veterans may receive their VA education assistance benefits to supplement their apprenticeship wages.
To learn more about the program and how to apply, visit us at: http://www.landbasedlearning.org/farm-academy-apprentice or join us at a virtual info session: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYofu6gqTkjEtTw23ylwqCmqvd-VHo...