Future Farmer Training

Future farmers are important to the future of food.

Across the U.S., the number of farmers has been steadily declining while the average age of farmers continues to rise — now at 57 years old. Since the 1970s, more than 25 million acres of farmland have been lost to development. To address these challenges, farms like ours are creating future farmer training opportunities to inspire and equip the next generation.

At Sweetwater, our internships and apprenticeships invite participants to learn by doing — planting, harvesting, and caring for the land using sustainable and regenerative practices. These programs are more than skill-building; they are a call to action to preserve farming culture, restore food sovereignty, and create resilient communities. By working with us, you’ll join a team committed to mindful farming and inspiring the next generation of growers and food advocates.

Whether you’re exploring farming as a career path, building skills to support your community, or simply eager to reconnect with the land, our programs offer meaningful opportunities to grow alongside both plants and people.

Future Farmer Internship

Duration: Seasonal, 3-6 months

Hours: 8-12 hours/week [Sunday availability +1 other day = 2 days weekly]

Compensation: Stipend + educational exchange

Internship Overview: This hands-on internship is designed for individuals passionate about organic farming, sustainability, and local food systems. Interns will work alongside experienced farmers, gaining practical skills in all aspects of small-scale organic agriculture.

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Future Farmer Apprenticeship

Duration: Seasonal, 3–6 months

Compensation: Stipend + housing + educational exchange

Hours: 20 hours/week [Sunday availability +3 other days = 4 days weekly]

Apprenticeship Overview: This hands-on apprenticeship is designed for individuals passionate about organic farming, sustainability, and local food systems. Apprenticeship will work alongside experienced farmers, gaining practical skills in all aspects of small-scale organic agriculture. Will have a chance to pursue personal farming projects alongside your regular duties. Will be teaching/educating volunteers on farming techniques.

For more information, please visit Apprentice at Sweetwater Farm

What You’ll Learn & Build for Your Resume

Practical training in organic farming techniques (planting, harvesting, composting, soil health)
Exposure to sustainable agriculture methods that prioritize people, animals, and the planet
Experience in team collaboration, problem-solving, and time management
Insight into the seasonal rhythms of food production and farm operations
Professional experience contributing to a mission-driven nonprofit that values sustainability and community impact

Responsibilities

Assist with fieldwork: planting, seeding, weeding, mulching, & harvesting crops (without use of heavy machinery )
Participate in soil health management: composting, cover cropping, natural amendments
Care for livestock: feeding chickens and putting them away
Help maintain farm infrastructure: greenhouses, irrigation, tools
Pack and prepare harvests for CSA and farmers’ markets/café
Learn pest/disease management using organic methods (no synthetic chemicals)
Engage with visitors or volunteers; help lead volunteers: educational tours, workshops
Assist with marketing, social media, or farm stand sales
Monitor pest activity and adjust control method
Contribute to seasonal planning and farm-wide projects
Work collaboratively with farm staff and fellow interns

Who Should Apply

Community members and college students interested in agriculture, sustainability, food systems, nutrition, or environmental studies
No prior farming experience required for interns, some experience required for apprentices—training provided
Ability to perform physical labor in all weather conditions (lifting, bending, standing)
Willingness to work early mornings, weekends, or irregular hours as needed
Team player with a positive attitude and eagerness to learn
Basic knowledge of sustainability or gardening is a plus

Excited to Volunteer?

Please email your resume and a brief cover letter expressing your interest and qualifications that align with our farm’s mission & purpose to our Farm Manager- Austin Freeman at farmmanager@sweetwater-organic.org & office@sweetwater-organic.org