A program to train agricultural workers, promised by the Saskatchewan government in its growth plan, was unveiled in Yorkton this morning.
The Agricultural Operator Program is a module-based program that will give potential workers practical training. Trainees can take one or more modules, depending on what they need or want to study.
Potential employees do not need a farm background. Those with farm backgrounds can choose to study the modules relevant to their own operations.
The first three modules — seeding, spraying and scouting, and harvest — will be delivered by Parkland Regional College in Yorkton as a pilot program beginning with seeding on March 3. Future modules will include haying, beef cattle reproduction and calving, and cattle husbandry and handling.
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Once the pilot is complete, the province intends to expand the program to other regional colleges.
The seeding module includes 36 hours of hands-on workshops and nine hours of online work.
The spraying module will be offered in late May and harvest in early July.
Agriculture minister Lyle Stewart said producers need more skilled labour.
“Farmers can send current or potential employees through the program to develop or help fine tune their skills,” he said. “Additionally, general labourers with a farm background will have an opportunity to gain the experience needed to get involved in the industry.”
