This is how we used to do our apprenticeship program. Contact us to see why we don't do it any more, and/or what's different.
Summer Apprentice Program
The Gibbs Farm apprentice program is a great way for people who are interested in sustainable farming to gain the knowledge and experience needed to work in the field of organics.
General Information
Education Opportunities Include:
Gardening, orchard management, irrigation, pest control, entomology, animal husbandry, butchering, composting, equipment operation, forestry, organics, grains, and marketing. There are also opportunities to learn farm bookkeeping by hand, machinery mechanics/repairs, and food preservation/canning.
Work/Experience Desired:
Previous farm experience is wonderful but not mandatory.
Interns Should Have:
A driver's license, ability to work in 90 degree+ heat, strong back and body, a willingness to work hard, love of animals, interest or ability to use machinery, and a love of nature.
Stipend/Compensation:
Varies depending on previous experience (usually varies between low and extremely low, ha!)
Housing:
Options range from private room to, tipi or camping. Apprentices share their own kitchen and bathroom facilities.
Meals:
Basic foodstuffs, food from the gardens, and occasional organic meat are provided.
Deadline:
Email or call for an interview before March 15 (sooner the better)
Length of Program:
April - October
Number of Apprentices:
Generally two apprentices are accepted per season
Contact:
email: Danielle at gibbsfamilyfarm@yahoo.com (don’t expect immediate reply, we check once a week)
Interns will be accepted after an on-farm interview.
Gardening, orchard management, irrigation, pest control, entomology, animal husbandry, butchering, composting, equipment operation, forestry, organics, grains, and marketing. There are also opportunities to learn farm bookkeeping by hand, machinery mechanics/repairs, and food preservation/canning.
Work/Experience Desired:
Previous farm experience is wonderful but not mandatory.
Interns Should Have:
A driver's license, ability to work in 90 degree+ heat, strong back and body, a willingness to work hard, love of animals, interest or ability to use machinery, and a love of nature.
Stipend/Compensation:
Varies depending on previous experience (usually varies between low and extremely low, ha!)
Housing:
Options range from private room to, tipi or camping. Apprentices share their own kitchen and bathroom facilities.
Meals:
Basic foodstuffs, food from the gardens, and occasional organic meat are provided.
Deadline:
Email or call for an interview before March 15 (sooner the better)
Length of Program:
April - October
Number of Apprentices:
Generally two apprentices are accepted per season
Contact:
email: Danielle at gibbsfamilyfarm@yahoo.com (don’t expect immediate reply, we check once a week)
Interns will be accepted after an on-farm interview.
"I had no farming experience prior to being an apprentice on the Gibbs Farm. I immediately became part of their family and have been treated that way ever since. That summer was so monumental and life changing for me. I learned a lot more than was anticipated, from soil prep to planting and harvesting, composting, marketing, cover cropping, orchard work and livestock maintenance. Then seeing how it all fits together in a full circle of sustainable agriculture. I worked really hard all summer, but left with a work ethic that has helped me in all aspects of life."
- Nate (previous intern)
"The farm is located in a beautiful canyon bordering the Wenatchee national forest. It has easy access to Leavenworth and a multitude of outdoor activities. Yet, with all these pluses I think the biggest attraction to the farm is the people. There is a family atmosphere enriched by a revolving door of diverse visitors. Your experience at Gibbs Organic Produce is certain to be memorable. It’s a special place."
- Ben (previous intern)
