By Scout Nelson
Kansas is stepping into the future of agriculture with the launch of an apprenticeship program aimed at strengthening the industrial hemp sector. South Bend Industrial Hemp, in collaboration with the Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB), is leading this initiative through the Rural Kansas Apprenticeship Program (RKAP).
"South Bend Industrial Hemp strives to be a leader in this emerging industry, while maintaining our foundation of core values we've developed in our rural community,” says Melissa Nelson-Baldwin, co-founder of South Bend Industrial Hemp.
This program is not just about job creation; it's about building a skilled workforce tailored to the needs of the hemp processing industry. Apprentices selected for this program will undergo comprehensive training, gaining firsthand experience while being fully employed by South Bend Industrial Hemp.
KFB plays a crucial role as the intermediary sponsor, facilitating the connection between South Bend Industrial Hemp, the Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship, and aspiring apprentices. This partnership ensures that participants receive not only mentorship and training but also compensation as they carve out a career in this high-demand field.
“As rural communities continue to diminish, our intention is to provide opportunities and hope for applicants,” Nelson-Baldwin says. The RKAP, being the first registered apprenticeship program focused on agriculture and rural Kansas, opens doors to educational and employment opportunities statewide.
Joel Leftwich, KFB’s chief strategy officer, underscores the program's potential to foster growth in agriculture and support rural communities. For those interested in exploring apprenticeship opportunities with Kansas Farm Bureau, contact Joel Leftwich at leftwichj@kfb.org.
This innovative approach to education and employment in the agricultural sector marks a significant step forward for Kansas, promising to enrich the hemp industry and rural communities alike.
Photo Credit -gettyimages-fatcamera
Categories: Kansas, Crops