2027 APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM: CALL FOR HOST FARMS

Young Agrarians is seeking Host Farms for the 2027 Young Agrarians (YA) Apprenticeship Program in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Join YA in helping to grow the next generation of regenerative farmers!

Are you a farmer or rancher who is committed to caring for the land?

Are you excited to share your knowledge and experience with aspiring farmers?

Does your farm incorporate ecological and/or regenerative farming practices?

If you answered yes to these questions, we’d love to hear from you!

What it’s like to be a Host Farm 

About the Program

The Apprenticeship Program launched in Alberta in 2016 and has continued to grow across Western Canada, expanding into Saskatchewan and Manitoba in 2021 and British Columbia in 2024. To date, 213 apprentices have gained hands-on farming experience while working with 82 Host Farms.

For complete program details, visit our Apprenticeship Program page.

Find a good match for your farm

Apprenticeships take place during the growing season and typically last 4 to 8 months. Placements can be either full-time or part-time, with apprentices living on the farm or in a nearby community.

Our team will work with you to create a farm profile that reflects your operation, goals, and farming values. Your opportunity will be promoted through Young Agrarians’ website, network, and social media channels.

After applications have been reviewed by Apprenticeship Coordinators, you’ll receive a shortlist of qualified candidates to interview. We’re available throughout the recruitment process to answer questions and provide support whenever needed.

Training and ongoing support 

We want every Host Farm to feel confident and prepared before the season begins.

Each winter, we offer a series of training sessions covering topics such as:

• Creating employment contracts
• Effective onboarding practices
• On-farm communication
• Building successful mentor–apprentice relationships

Training features presentations from HR professionals as well as experienced Host Farmers who share practical insights from their years in the program.

Co-create a meaningful learning experience

Hosting an apprentice is more than providing a job. It is an opportunity to mentor the next generation of farmers!

Throughout the season, we’ll support you and your apprentice in setting and achieving learning goals using resources such as a skills checklist. Our team provides monthly check-ins with both Host Farms and apprentices to ensure the placement is progressing well and expectations are being met.

If challenges or conflicts arise, we’re available to help facilitate communication and work toward positive solutions.

Apprentices also become part of a supportive cohort of aspiring farmers who connect throughout the growing season and often meet at Young Agrarians events as schedules allow.

Host Farm Qualifications

• Have been farming for at least four years
• Have previous experience supervising farm or ranch employees or trainees
• Prioritize healthy soils, nutritious food, thriving communities, and resilient ecosystems
• Foster a farm culture and agricultural practices that support a high quality of life for people and animals
• Be prepared to serve as an apprentice’s full-time employer, mentor, and guide
• Have the time and capacity to provide meaningful instruction and regular feedback
• Carry valid Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Want to Learn More?

Register now for our upcoming Host Farm Info Session on Tuesday, September 8th, at 11 am PT | 12 pm MT | 1 pm CT.

Connect With Us Today

To learn more about becoming a Host Farm and to submit a short application (Expression of Interest), visit our Host Farm page.

Please note that submitting an Expression of Interest is the first step in the application process and does not guarantee acceptance into the program.

The best way to determine whether the program is a good fit is to connect with your provincial Apprenticeship Coordinator. They can answer questions, discuss your goals, and guide you through the next steps.