Boots on the Ground: NC Veteran Farmer Apprenticeship
Frequently Asked Questions
How will host sites be selected?
Host farms will be chosen through an application and interview process. In addition, all host sites must be approved by the Advisory Team.
Requirements for host sites include:
1) In business for at least 3 years
2) Committed interest in training new farmers and manager
3) Demonstrated proficiency in core competencies defined in Apprenticeship curriculum
4) Prior experience managing employees, apprentices, or interns
5) Ability to financially support an employee for 20-40 hours of paid work per week.
6) Willingness to complete pre and post program and event surveys
7) Willingness to meet and communicate with apprentice, program coordinators, and other stakeholders on a regular or as-needed basis
Will housing be provided?
Unless otherwise noted in the farm host’s description, all apprentices will be responsible for finding their own housing during the program. The host farm and coordinating organization may provide contacts and resources for housing if needed.
What are the benefits of a “Registered” Apprenticeship?
The program is registered with ApprenticeshipNC, the state Apprenticeship coordinating body. This credential will demonstrate to future employers nationwide that apprentices are fully qualified and highlight which skills they have mastered. Employers will be able to look up the program and core competencies achieved for each apprentice.
Also 1) There is more oversight and accountability for both the apprentice and host organization. Registered Apprenticeships are required to have core competencies and an evaluation mechanism for each competency. Apprentices do not receive the certificate without passing each core competency. 2) A Registered Apprenticeship must include both hands-on job training and classroom-based training providing both theoretical and experiential based learning. 3) Apprentices receive guaranteed wage increases throughout the program increasing retention and economic stability 4) Apprenticeship Alumni will have access to CEFS career pathways resources and opportunities for continued mentoring and professional development.
When is the application due?
Applications are due as follows:
Host Farms will be approved until all 8 positions are filled.
Apprenticeship application deadline: Positions are filled on a rolling basis. Applications will close May 1st.
What if I am not selected for this apprenticeship?
This apprenticeship has 8 spots for 2024. If you are not selected we can still assist with the exchange of information between additional host farms and apprentice applicants to help make connections. We also encourage you to check back and apply for future cohorts.
Am I eligible to apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?
U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, and citizens of Puerto Rico are eligible to apply.
When will I be notified if I have been accepted?
Host farms will be reaching out to qualified apprentices and scheduling interviews. If a host farm would like to move forward with you as an apprentice we will notify you to begin the registration process and discuss a starting date.
What are the dates of Boots on the Ground: NC Veteran Farmer Apprenticeship?
The program will begin when an apprentice is hired by an approved host farm and lasts 12-18 months, with a minimum of 2,000 hours of on the job training and 144 hours of related technical instruction or classroom training.
What are the working expectations for apprentices?
Apprentices are expected to work 20 – 40 hours a week to reach at least 2,000 hours by the end of the 12-18 month program. Each apprentice will receive hands-on training from an experienced mentor at their host organization or farm. Host farms are the employers of the apprentices, and will maintain all managerial oversight including hiring decisions, work schedules, and task assignments. Apprentices should be prepared to work in all manner of environmental conditions. Please let us know of any reasonable accommodations you might need to perform this work in advance if possible.
Who manages the apprentices?
Each farm host has full managerial oversight of their apprentices, including hiring decisions, hourly wages, work schedules, work tasks, employee benefits, and time off requests.
What if there is a conflict between an apprentice and the host farm?
If there is any conflict between apprentices or host farmers, please contact the project coordinator to discuss possible resolution.
Is there a stipend or other benefits provided for the program?
Each apprentice will receive an hourly wage from their host farms and a supplemental monthly educational stipend from CEFS to cover the related instruction hours. If eligible, you may use your GI Bill benefits which will pay for on the job training, if applicable, equal to the BAH rate of an E-5 with dependents for the first 6 months and 80% of that rate for the second 6 months. More information on using your GI Bill for an apprenticeship can be found here.
Who should I contact about the program?
For any additional questions or information about the program, contact Dr. Angel Cruz at aecruz@ncsu.edu or 919-513-0954.