"Anytime you change one thing on the farm, there are a lot of other aspects to change along with it. The DDC Program helped us think through the whole process, not just shoot from the hip."

"The grant took away so many variables and gave us a concrete idea. It gave me the confidence I needed to move forward with a project like this. It went from a pipe dream to a reality."

"Listening to the podcast is interesting to hear how other dairy farmers are finding ways to solve problems. You benefit by hearing the trials and tribulations of others who are seeking to be on the cutting edge."

"We decided to be a host farm because we believe in the importance of consumers understanding where their milk comes from. This program is a great way for dairy farmers to get that story out there."

"They do a lot of genetic work and embryo transfers at this farm. My host farmer let me breed and everything. He put a lot of trust in me to do that which I’m appreciative of. This internship was extremely valuable. This experience has shown me a lot of things that I enjoy doing."

The Center has registered a Dairy Herd Manager Apprenticeship with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry. We are looking for host farms to serve as an employer for the Dairy Herd Manager Apprenticeship Program.