It’s said that a farmer has to be a mechanic, biologist, vet, and CEO, sometimes all in the same day. Formal education and hours in the tractor seat are how plenty of farming is learned, but there’s always new leadership skills to develop and more to learn. Professional development pays, too, as farms with better leadership have been shown to fare better financially.
Beginning later this month, Farm Management Canada will kick off the next round of the National Farm Leadership Program. Applications are still being accepted to the in-person and online course.
The focus of the National Farm Leadership Program is teaching farmers how to perform at their best when it matters most, says Farm Management Canada. Led by certified executive coach and fourth-generation farmer, Kelly Dobson, the next cohort begins on January 23, 2023.
The program takes place over several weeks through virtual learning and a 3-day in-person meet up. Monthly group coaching and personal coaching continues for the remainder of the calendar year.
“The program fits into busy farm life to help you identify the critical development areas that will have the greatest impact on your personal and professional lives,” Dobson says. “Not only is leadership good for business, it’s good for the well-being of the leader and those they work with.”
The deadline to apply to the National Farm Leadership Program is January 18th. Visit Leader Shift to apply.