Apprenticeship & Workforce Development
DOL-registered pathways and USDA BFRDP-aligned training for the next generation of American farmers
Real Training, Real Pathways
LFFCI's Apprenticeship & Workforce Development program creates high-quality, structured pathways into farming for young people — particularly first-generation farmers, refugees, and veterans — who would otherwise lack access to hands-on mentorship and formal credentialing.
We are building formal partnerships with USDA BFRDP (Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program), the Department of Labor, IRC Atlanta, and farm incubators across the country to create apprenticeship tracks that lead to recognised certifications and sustainable farm businesses.
This program directly addresses two of the biggest barriers to entry: the inability to learn from experienced farmers, and the lack of formal credentials that lenders and markets recognise.
Program Focus Areas
- ▶DOL-registered sustainable agriculture apprenticeships
- ▶USDA BFRDP-aligned training and certification
- ▶Refugee & veteran farmer integration pathways
- ▶Farm incubator and on-farm mentorship placements
- ▶H-2A worker transition support
Who We Work With
Our apprenticeship program is built on formal institutional partnerships — not just good intentions.
USDA BFRDP
Alignment with the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program grants and training frameworks, ensuring our apprentices qualify for federal support.
Department of Labor
DOL-registered apprenticeship tracks in sustainable agricultural crafts, providing nationally recognised credentials that open doors with lenders and markets.
IRC Atlanta
Partnership with the International Rescue Committee in Atlanta to create dedicated pathways for refugee farmers, leveraging their existing agricultural skills in a new context.
Farm Incubators
On-farm placements with incubator programmes across the country provide real land access and mentorship from experienced farmers who want to pass on their knowledge.
Built for Those Who Face the Highest Barriers
First-Generation Farmers (Ages 18–35)
No family farm to inherit, no network, no collateral — but the drive to build something. Our program is designed for you specifically.
Refugee Farmers
Many resettled refugees bring deep agricultural expertise from their home countries. LFFCI and IRC Atlanta work together to recognise those skills and provide pathways to farm ownership across America.
Veteran Farmers
Veterans bring discipline, leadership, and problem-solving skills that translate directly to farm management. We provide the agricultural-specific training and USDA navigation support to get started.
H-2A Workers Seeking Transition
Seasonal agricultural workers who want to build toward farm ownership receive structured support through our transition pathway programme.
Interested in the Apprenticeship Program?
We are building our first cohort now. Contact us to express your interest — as a prospective apprentice, host farm, or partner organisation.