Apply to Host 2026 Dairy On-Farm Internships

By Blake Jackson

Dairy producers in Pennsylvania and beyond are encouraged to apply to host a farm for the 2026 On-Farm Internship Program, which offers 10- to 12-week internships designed to give students hands-on experience in progressive dairy operations.

The program is a collaboration between the Professional Dairy Managers of Pennsylvania (PDMP), Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Association, and the Dairy Excellence Foundation. Applications for host farms must be submitted by November 15, 2025.

For producers seeking long-term employees, the Dairy Herd Manager Apprenticeship Program provides an 18-month training pathway for apprentices to gain expertise in herd management.

Registered with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, the program allows producers to train employees beyond high school education without requiring a college degree. Applications for employer farms are accepted on a rolling basis.

“If you’re looking for an employee who has experience in dairy production and an interest in advancing their skills, these programs allow you to help mentor and share your experience with a young professional,” said Michelle Shearer, Workforce Development Manager at the Center for Dairy Excellence.

“Interns and apprentices benefit from gaining hands-on experience and being exposed to all aspects of your operation while many host farms benefit from getting an outside perspective from a young person who is motivated to work hard, learn a lot, and pay attention to detail.”

On-farm interns set goals and focus areas for their 10- to 12-week experience, participate in discussion groups, and complete an in-depth research project to support the host farm.

“The On-Farm Internship program has been a great way for us to bring someone new into our operation who can help provide a fresh perspective in areas of our farm. We can also help the interns gain valuable skills and knowledge they can use in the future,” said Jared Kurtz of Kurtland Farms in Elverson, Pa.

Apprentices gain exposure to all aspects of herd management, with wages starting at $11 per hour and rising to $16 per hour over 18 months.

On-Farm Internship host applications are due November 15, 2025, while apprenticeship applications are accepted continuously. For details, visit www.centerfordairyexcellence.org/internship or www.centerfordairyexcellence.org/apprenticeship, or contact Michelle Shearer at mshearer@centerfordairyexcellence.org or 570-768-8316.

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