Federated Farmers' recent push to promote dairy apprenticeships is just what the industry needs, Horowhenua sharemilker Richard McIntyre says.
Mr McIntyre, who milks 450 cows at Poroutawhao as a sharemilker, has his finger on the pulse of the industry. He is also the chair of Federated Farmers' dairy section, and is involved with the Dairy Awards Institute. He's also on the steering group of the apprenticeship scheme.
"There needs to be progression through the industry for young people so it becomes a good career choice for them," Mr McIntyre said. "That's a big one for me, something I am very passionate about."
"These apprenticeships focus on teaching and fill a big gap in the industry. Not all farmers like teaching and some workers just want to work, not learn. The scheme brings learner and teacher together. It is really important that farmers and workers or apprentices fit together, for the relationship to work."
The scheme is run by Primary ITO which signs up the apprentices, while Federated Farmers engage the farmers. Unique to this scheme is the fact that farmers who sign up sign a Farm Charter, a commitment to provide a work environment that best supports the training and development of apprentices as well as a commitment from Federated Farmers to ensure they have the tools to do this.