The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) recently awarded Berks County-based Rodale Institute, an agricultural research and education nonprofit organization, with a $350,000 grant for the development of an apprenticeship program.
“Apprenticeship programs offer pathways to stable careers and family-sustaining wages without the crippling burden of debt,” L&I Secretary Nancy Walker said. “It’s also one of the best ways for employers to create customized education programs to ensure they have the talent pipeline they need to grow and be successful in a global economy.”
The program will train participants for careers as organic compliance inspectors in the agriculture industry and will create a pipeline of professionals to serve the certified organic industry.
“The Organic Compliance Specialist Registered Apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about organic agriculture to receive comprehensive training and hands-on experience, setting them on a path towards a rewarding career in this growing and evolving industry,” Jeff Tkach, Rodale Institute CEO, said.
L&I’s Apprenticeship and Training Office guides and promotes the expansion and compliance of all registered apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs statewide.