Finding and keeping good employees is one of the biggest challenges facing today’s farm businesses. To help farm managers build stronger workplaces and develop effective leadership skills, the University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension is offering a new cohort of its online Becoming the Employer of Choice course which will run Sept. 1-25, 2026.
The four-week course combines self-paced online learning with instructor-led discussions, giving you practical tools and takeaways to immediately apply on your farm. The course requires approximately three to four hours per week, consisting of both scheduled live Zoom discussions and flexible online learning to complete on your own time.
Throughout the course, you will explore strategies for creating a positive workplace culture, improving communication, delivering effective feedback, developing employees, managing conflict, and strengthening employee engagement. The program is designed for farm leaders of all operation sizes who want to attract, engage, and retain talented employees while creating a thriving, people-centered workplace.
To encourage meaningful discussion and individualized learning, enrollment in this cohort is limited to five to seven participants.
The course will run Sept. 1–25, 2026. Wisconsin agricultural producers receive a 15% discount on registration.
Visit our website for additional information, course details, and participant testimonials or register now.
Because space is limited, early registration is encouraged.