The Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS) continues to inspire new agricultural and food system career pathways, offering short-term internships for current or recently-graduated students, as well as registered apprenticeships for community members and military veterans. The goal is to increase the pool and diversity of trained new food system leaders through our unique programs.   NOW IS THE TIME TO APPLY for CEFS Registered Apprenticeships. Read along to learn about each of these opportunities.

 

 

Sustainable Vegetable Production Registered Apprenticeship   The Sustainable Vegetable Production Apprenticeship aims to increase the pool of trained agricultural workers for management positions at diversified and sustainable vegetable operations in North Carolina. The program is open to individuals with some farming experience seeking to gain hands-on training in vegetable farm management.

 

 

Boots on the Ground: NC Veteran Farmer Registered Apprenticeship   North Carolina is home to the 7th highest population of military veterans in the nation. Agricultural jobs offer a viable path for returning service members to capitalize on skills that made them successful in the military. This registered apprenticeship allows veterans to use their GI Bill education benefits for on-the-job training.

 

 

Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship   CEFS is the Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship (DGA) Education Coordinator for North Carolina.    DGA links current and aspiring dairy farmers and provides a structure of support for the transfer of knowledge, skills, and farms from one generation to the next. Apprentices complete more than 3700 hours of on-the-job training and related instruction.

 

 

Click the images below to hear from past apprentices!

 

 

Darius McKoy

Lauren Welsh

Christine Best

 

Temika Parker

Raelin Reynolds

EJ Sutton

 

Registered with ApprenticeshipNC, the state apprenticeship coordinating body, these apprenticeships include both hands-on job training and classroom-based training leading to an industry-recognized certification from NC Community Colleges and the US Department of Labor. This credential will demonstrate to future employers nationwide that apprentices are fully qualified and highlight which skills they have mastered.

 

 

Click here to find out which CEFS career pathway works best for you!

 

 

Grow the Future of Sustainable Farming: Become a Host Farm Today!

 

 

These apprenticeships benefit farmers who employ farm labor and want a dedicated employee who is eager to learn and is committed to sustainable farming. Support from CEFS includes stipends for both hosts and apprentices, peer support Zoom calls, 1:1 check-ins with a coordinator, statewide farm tours, and paid training and networking opportunities to kick-start a career in sustainable agriculture. Current farm employees may also enroll in an apprenticeship to receive customized training and support.

 

CEFS Registered Apprenticeship Host Farm and Mentor Application