CALIFORNIA STATE BOARD OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE TO DISCUSS STATEWIDE NEED FOR AGRICULTURAL WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING

Español

SACRAMENTO, August 28, 2020-   The California State Board of Food and Agriculture will hear from representatives of California Community Colleges, state officials and community organizations concerning agriculture workforce development and training needs. The meeting will be held Tuesday, September 1, 2020 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. via GoToWebinar.
 
Meeting Link:               https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4436880571363535375
 
Webinar ID:                 754-254-139
 
“Our farms and ranches thrive on employing a skilled and trained workforce,” said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross.  “Farming requires a unique skill set that is constantly advancing to embrace new technologies while also maintaining expertise in irrigation, farm mechanics and food safety. When we look at agricultural workforce development and training – we are hopeful to provide not only a career pathway for current farm workers, but certifications and apprenticeships for those entering and leading the industry into the future.” 
 
Invited speakers include: Ed Rood, California Department of Industrial Relations; Nancy Gutierrez, Reedley College; Holly Correa, Ventura College; Zachary Zweigle, Shasta College; Glenda Humiston, UC Agriculture and Natural Resources; Elliott Balch, Central Valley Community Foundation; and Rick Tomlinson, California Strawberry Commission.
 
“As a farmer in the Central Valley, I see the need for workforce training firsthand,” said President Don Cameron, California State Board of Food and Agriculture. “Agriculture is the livelihood for many rural communities and the jobs we have available are good, higher paying jobs. The technology and equipment we are using requires a new emphasis on agricultural training. We need improved agricultural workforce development and training so that those of us living in rural communities can directly benefit from the agricultural technology jobs that are here.”
 
The California State Board of Food and Agriculture advises the governor and CDFA secretary on agricultural issues and consumer needs. The Board conducts forums that bring together local, state and federal government officials; agricultural representatives; and citizens to discuss current issues and concerns to California agriculture.
 
Follow the board on twitter at: www.twitter.com/Cafood_agboard

-30-