Apply for an Apprenticeship or Internship

Are you serious about dairy farming? We're looking for motivated candidates.

GAIN knowledge and experience within an employment-based, structured program of support under the guidance of an experienced dairy grazier.

DEVELOP skills that will prepare you for positions in management, partnerships, and farm ownership.

RECEIVE professional financial analysis and business planning support.

EXPLORE new models of investment, equity building, and farm transfer.

ACHIEVE your dream of becoming an advanced manager or independent farm business owner and help shape the future of the dairy industry.

It's Easy to Apply!

To apply for an Apprenticeship or Internship, review instructions below and then click on the “Apply Now” button below:

  1. Register for a DGA account

    • Fill in contact information and introduction
    • Select notification option (text or email)
    • Create password and confirm account

  2. Complete the Apprentice Application Process

    • Confirm program and residency requirements
    • Describe your education, experience, and goals
    • Select location(s) and position type (Apprentice or Intern)
    • Secondary contact (optional)
    • Submit your Apprentice Application

  3. Receive Welcome email from DGA

    • Read information about the program
    • Add info@dga-national.org to your email contacts
    • Download attached procedure document

  4. Mentors are responsible for hiring an Apprentice and may

    • Receive notice of your application
    • Contact you directly or send message through website
    • Make their profile available to Apprentice applicants

  5. Sign In to the DGA website any time to

    • Search for Mentors with an available profile
    • Answer messages from Mentors and DGA Staff
    • Update your profile or change settings

If you have questions about Apprentice application process, please contact Jessica Matthews, Apprenticeship Program Manager at jessicam@dga-national.org

You can also view this helpful Apprentice Candiate Tip Sheet

Minimum Qualifications

  • Must have high school diploma or higher or GED, or a composite score of at least 18, or comparable Accuplacer test scores in math and reading.

  • Must be at least 18 years of age.

  • Must be physically able to perform the work of the trade with reasonable accommodations and without hazard to themselves or others.

  • Must have reliable transportation to and from work and school.

Training Sites

Apprenticeship candidates choose their preferred training location(s) when they apply.

Preview Mentor Farm Site options here:
Map of Approved Mentor Farm Sites

Note: DGA has an open application process but does not at this time have the capacity to serve international applicants.


DGA is proud to provide current and former military service members and their families with opportunities to learn about managed grazing dairy production.

GI Bill® approved.

GI Bill® Hotline for specific GI Bill questions: 888-442-4551

DGA Veterans Brochure
GI Benefits for Apprenticeships

Questions About the Apprenticeship Program?

Contact Jessica Matthew, Apprenticeship Program Manager
jessicam@dga-national.org

Download Apprentice Candiate Tip Sheet