DFI apprenticeships make dreams come true for local agricultural entrepreneurs.
The Desert Farming Initiative is addressing the lack of local farms and farm workers by supporting a new generation of agricultural professionals through apprenticeships funded by the Nevada Agricultural Experiment Station and the University of Nevada, Reno.

Through DFI’s new Nevada Farm Apprenticeship Program, which launched in 2023, entrepreneurship-minded individuals from the community learn and work alongside industry professionals. The one-year intensive apprenticeship focuses on preparing individuals to jumpstart their own agriculture-related careers, bolstering the regional food system. Apprentices receive a living wage stipend to support them throughout the apprenticeship.

“We really want to provide a high-value experience and have people leave here with practical skills and knowledge that will lead to successful farming careers in the region,” says Jill Moe, director of DFI.

The apprenticeship program is the latest in a stream of programs hosted by DFI, a year-round organic fruit and vegetable demonstration farm whose mission is to advance climate-smart farming and food systems.

A link to the full store will be available soon.