By Jamie Martin
Serve Colorado proudly announces a new farming apprenticeship during National Apprenticeship Week. This Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) focuses on regenerative farm management and aims to train the next generation of farmers in sustainable practices and hydroponic farming.
Supported by a 2022 Scale Up Grant, this initiative is a collaboration among local experts, educational institutions, and partners like Mountain Roots Food Project.
Lt. Gov. Dianne Primavera expressed excitement about the program, noting it prepares participants for successful agricultural careers and promotes sustainable practices.
The program, combining AmeriCorps service with apprenticeship training, offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable skills while serving the community.
The first two apprentices will start by the end of 2024, with a structured pathway to foster continuous growth and a supportive learning environment.
Each apprentice will undergo 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and 144 hours of related instruction, provided by experienced local farmers.
Susan Wyman, Eco-Farmer at Gunnison Gardens and a key partner in the RAP, highlighted the comprehensive nature of the program, "The Registered Apprenticeship offers credentials, credibility, and commitment to learning 52 core competencies that a regenerative farm manager will need. I'm prepared to teach everything I know about farming and marketing to help young farmers, to invest in careers in agriculture."
Interested individuals can learn more and apply through the Mountain Roots Healthy Futures webpage. This program not only addresses the need for sustainable farming practices but also ensures the cultivation of future agricultural leaders in Colorado.
Discover more about Serve Colorado and its apprenticeship programs by visiting their website at https://servecolorado.colorado.gov/americorps-and-apprenticeship.
Photo Credit: pexels-pragyan-bezbaruah
Categories: National