Ag HR Management Program

CAHRC works with industry associations, educators, and all levels of government to examine agriculture human resource issues and build meaningful research-based solutions.

Le CCRHA travaille avec les intervenants des associations agricoles, les enseignants et les responsables de tous les ordres de gouvernement à l'examen des enjeux en matière de main-d'œuvre et à la création de solutions constructives afin d'assurer le dynamisme futur de l'industrie agricole canadienne.

Learning objectives

By the end of the program, learners are able to:

• Understand the foundational principles and key components of HR management in the context of agriculture
• Understand the concept and importance of HR planning in agriculture
• Understand the recruitment process and its critical role in building effective and sustainable operation
• Develop strategies to identify and select the best candidates for your operation
• Learn to design and implement an effective training process tailored to the needs of your farm operation
• Identify common wellness challenges in agriculture and their impact on workers and operations.

Duration

20 hours

Language and format

Delivered in English through a blended format combining online self-paced learning with live Zoom sessions.

Target audience

This course is designed for those who lead and manage people in agriculture, including: Farm Owners and Managers: Develop practical tools and strategies to build a more productive and engaged workforce while addressing the unique challenges of agricultural operations. Family-Owned Farms: Implement structured HR practices that help balance professional and family dynamics, ensuring smoother operations and healthier working relationships. HR Professionals in Agriculture: Expand your expertise with specialized knowledge tailored to the unique workforce dynamics of the agriculture sector. Agricultural Business Leaders: Equip yourself with the latest tools, including modern recruitment technologies and trends to attract, retain, and develop agricultural workforce.

Teaching methods

• Self-paced e-learning modules with readings, videos, and reflection exercises
• Live Zoom sessions led by facilitator including work scenarios, and group discussions.
• Practical assignments and self-reflections exercises.

Assessment and evaluation

• Participation in live sessions and discussions
• Completion of self-paced module activities
• To receive the completion certificate, participants must attend at least 70% of the live sessions.

Career or academic outcomes

Graduates of this program receive a microcredential/completion certificate from a recognized industry organization that strengthens their professional portfolio.

Practical applications

Learners can actively apply course content in their day-to-day roles on the farm or within agricultural organizations. Through group discussions and real-case scenarios, they can implement effective HR strategies, build and maintain healthy workplaces and use training and development techniques to enhance productivity.

Learning Content

1. Human Resource Management: A Brief Overview

   • Introduction to HR management in agriculture
   • Overview of key HR functions and their impact on farm productivity
   • Direct and indirect costs of employee turnover
   • Overview of current Canadian agricultural HR challenges.

2. Human Resource Planning

   • Introduction to the concept of HR planning and its relevance in agriculture
   • Five steps of HR planning
   • Practical examples of HR planning in agricultural settings
   • The role of HR planning in addressing seasonal labor needs

3. Human Resource Policies

   • Introduction to HR policies
   • Key components of HR policies
   • HR policies in the success of the operation
   • Employee handbook development
   • HR policies communication and implementation
   • Special consideration for family-owned farms.

4. Attraction and Recruitment

   • Concept of recruitment
   • Five steps of recruitment
   • Using technology in recruitment​
   • Recruitment strategies for farms.

5. Selection and Hiring

   • Types of interviews
   • Best practices for preparing interview questions tailored to agricultural roles
   • Techniques for assessing candidate qualifications and cultural fit
   • Compliance requirements
   • Effective selection practices and reference checking
   • Communicating offers and negotiating employment terms.

6. Training and Development

   • Training process planning and management
   • Creating effective orientation program
   • On-the-job-training including mentoring and coaching tailored to agricultural tasks.

7. Fostering a Healthy and Productive Workplace

   • Introduction of workplace wellness and its importance in agriculture
   • Addressing common wellness issues in agriculture
   • Creating and implementing a health and wellness plan.

8. Program Recap and Review