Apprenticeships are a tried-and-true model of learning that have trained workers for careers in skilled trades for centuries. SVPA offers people wanting serious training on sustainable farms support by finding skillful farmers and a curriculum that outlines the competencies needed to be successful on diversified, sustainable vegetable farms. The curriculum is registered with ApprenticeshipNC, the state organization that oversees all registered apprenticeship programs.

The curriculum is based on the US Department of Labor’s recommended components for successful apprenticeships including:

1. Business involvement
2. Structured on the job training
3. Relevant instruction
4. Rewards for skill gains
5. Recognized credentials

Apprentices must pass each core competency in order to receive the certificate.

Core Competency Areas:

• Crop Production
• Soil Health
• Resource Conservation
• Ecologically-Based Pest Management
• Marketing
• Equipment and Machinery
• Ag Business Management
• Social Topics
• Season Extension
• Post Harvest Handling & Crop Quality

Apprentice qualifications: 

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a high school graduate, or have a GED or equivalent
• Have a valid, government issued photo ID
• Physically able to perform farm work with reasonable accommodations
• Commit to 18th month apprenticeship
• Demonstrate a sincere interest in farming as a career
• Prior farming experience equivalent to at least one season
  • Eligible prior farming experience may include, but is not limited to:
    • Full-time or part-time farm employment
    • Farming internship or apprenticeship
    • Participating in a farm training or farm incubator program
    • Significant time spent volunteering with a farm
    • Community or technical college training in a related field
    • Significant self-study in sustainable agriculture or farm-scale food production