Addressing workforce challenges is a pivotal concern within the dairy industry. Recently, during the National Milk Producers Federation Young Cooperators Progressive panel at the World Dairy Expo, dairy leaders shared their insights and strategies on overcoming these challenges. The panel explored the importance of harnessing people, technology and training to tackle labor shortages and improve farm operations.
Dr. Megan Schrupp’s Approach:
Dr. Megan Schrupp, co-owner of NexGen Dairy, emphasizes the significance of investing in people. Her strategy revolves around finding talented individuals, placing them in suitable roles and equipping them with the necessary tools to excel.
“Finding good people, putting them in the right spots and giving them the tools that they need is key,” she says.
Recognizing the role of technology, Schrupp is advancing her farm’s efficiency by incorporating new tech solutions.
“Probably the biggest change for us is maybe the advancement of technology and providing them with some technology so they can do their job better and allow us to be more efficient with the labor we currently have,” she shares, noting they are adding four stalls to their parlor, without increasing additional labor.
Moreover, Schrupp highlights a renewed interest among young people in agriculture and food production. By nurturing youth enthusiasm and providing hands-on experiences, the farm helps shape future generations who are passionate about dairy.
“It seems like the last few years, young people are beginning to be excited about ag and want to know more about food production, and so we’re just spending time nurturing youth and providing them the experience to discover what dairy is,” she shares.
Ron Fowler’s Embrace of Technology
Ron Fowler, a first-generation dairy farmer from Michigan, echoes the sentiment that technology is a game-changer. His investments, including robotic systems and heat detection technology, have resulted in time savings and improved farm operations.
“That technology has really been a labor saver, at least on our farm,” he says, noting the introduction of these technologies enhanced efficiency and improved aspects like conception rates and animal health.
Fowler’s experience reveals how technology not only streamlines processes but also reduces workload. This shift allows for more focused and effective farm management, ensuring necessary tasks receive the attention they require.
Laura Raatz’s People-Driven Philosophy
Laura Raatz, co-owner and herd manager at Wagner Farms Inc., in Wis., focuses on cultivating a positive culture and atmosphere. By valuing people, the farm invests significantly in training and mentoring, equipping team members with skills for success both on and off the farm.
“The most important one we really do try to focus on is people, and we feel that they’re the most valuable thing on this planet, and they’re what is behind the success of our farm,” she says.
Raatz’s husband, Tyler, aims to create a waiting list of individuals eager to work at the farm, showcasing the impact of creating a desirable workplace. Balancing technology and tradition, their farm embraces innovation while maintaining a focus on worker and animal welfare.
“Sometimes you get some of the older generations that [think] some of this new technology is super scary and it’s hard to implement, but it’s here. Our farm is really all about embracing it, utilizing it for cow comfort and other investments within our dairy to help us do our jobs faster, easier, smarter and better,” she says. “When you combine all three of those things, I think it’s not just about filling jobs. It’s all about building a team that can grow and invest with our dairy.”
The insights shared by these dairy leaders underline a common theme: the convergence of people, technology and training is essential for navigating workforce challenges in the dairy industry. By investing in human resources, embracing technological advancements and fostering a nurturing environment, farms can build robust teams capable of sustaining growth and efficiency. This approach not only addresses current labor issues but also secures a promising future for the dairy sector.
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