The University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension is pleased to announce registration is open for Becoming the Employer of Choice for Vegetable Farmers (BTEC-Veg), a program designed for diversified vegetable farm owners and managers to strengthen their hiring, supervision, and employee-relations skills.
Through research-based techniques and peer-to-peer learning, BTEC-Veg’s eight online sessions cover themes of leadership, hiring, onboarding and training, employee motivation, workplace culture, giving and receiving feedback, conflict management, and more. In addition to the live learning sessions, participants gain access to an ever-growing library of online resources to help put into practice the concepts learned in each session.
Online sessions are held Mondays and Thursdays from 9–11 a.m. CST, Nov. 13 through Dec. 11, 2025. Participants have the option to register for the full series ($215) or individual sessions ($35 each). Register online at go.wisc.edu/BTEC-veg.
Addressing a critical need
Many vegetable farms rely heavily on hired labor and farm managers, yet few owners come into the business with formal training in human resources employee management. BTEC-Veg responds directly to that gap, combining research-based practices with peer learning and real-world examples tailored for the unique context of vegetable farms.
Collaborative and farmer-led
The program was created in partnership with experienced farm employers who also serve on the training team along with Extension staff. Extension hosts BTEC-Veg in partnership with FairShare CSA Coalition. FairShare farm members can register for the series at a discounted rate.
About UW-Madison Division of Extension
The University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming in compliance with state and federal law.
BTEC-Veg sessions will be conducted in English. Participants may request an interpreter, materials in an alternative language or format, or other services to make this event more accessible. Contact Sarah Janes Ugoretz at sarah.janesugoretz@wisc.edu or 608-234-1561 by Thursday, Nov. 27. There is no added cost for these services.
The UW–Madison Division of Extension connects people with the resources of the University of Wisconsin so that individuals and communities can thrive. Extension offers programs in agriculture, horticulture, community development, youth development, and more.
