By Blake Jackson
Recruiting and retaining dependable employees remains a major concern for many farm businesses. To help agricultural employers strengthen workplace practices and leadership abilities, the University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension is launching a new online cohort of its Becoming the Employer of Choice program from September 1-25, 2026.
The four-week course is designed to provide practical guidance that farm leaders can use in their daily operations. Participants will spend about three to four hours each week completing a combination of independent online lessons and instructor-led Zoom discussions.
The flexible format allows participants to complete self-paced activities around their farm schedules while still benefiting from live group conversations.
Course topics include building a healthy workplace culture, improving communication, providing constructive employee feedback, supporting professional development, resolving workplace conflicts, and increasing employee engagement.
The program is open to farm managers and leaders of operations of various sizes who want to create a stronger, more supportive workplace and improve employee retention.
Enrollment is limited to five to seven participants to encourage personalized learning and meaningful discussion. Wisconsin agricultural producers are eligible for a 15% registration discount.
For registration, visit https://farms.extension.wisc.edu/programs/becoming-the-employer-of-choice/.
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Categories: Wisconsin, Business, Education