Introducing the Ranch Workforce Project

The Ranch Workforce Project is a limited series podcast collaboration between the Ranchers Stewardship Alliance and Montana State University’s Dan Scott Ranch Management Program. While the series is rooted in ranching, the conversations are relevant across all of agriculture, including farming, orchards, specialty crop operations, and diversified agricultural businesses facing workforce challenges.

In this preview episode, host Haylie Shipp is joined by Rachel Frost to introduce the purpose of the series and the shared labor issues affecting agricultural operations nationwide. From recruiting and training new employees to managing expectations, workplace culture, and long term career pathways, this series takes a practical look at how agriculture can better prepare, support, and retain its workforce.

Drawing on experience working directly with both producers and students, this episode sets the stage for honest conversations about what is working, what is not, and where opportunities exist to strengthen the agricultural labor pipeline, regardless of operation size or production type.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• Why workforce challenges are affecting every sector of agriculture
• The disconnect between interested young people and agricultural employment opportunities
• Managing expectations for both employers and employees
• The role of mentorship, communication, and workplace culture in employee retention
• What listeners can expect from the Ranch Workforce Project series

Support the show

The Ranchers Stewardship Alliance (RSA) is a rancher-led, grassroots organization, dedicated to improving the quality of life for rural communities throughout the Northern Great Plains. Through collaborative conservation projects, rancher education events, and local community outreach, RSA works to strengthen our rural community, economy, and culture for generations to come.For more on the Ranchers Stewardship Alliance, head to www.RanchStewards.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Your feedback is always welcome. Email [email protected]. Want to support our mission? Visit www.ranchstewards.org/support.