In the ever-evolving realm of dairy farming, the heart of success lies not just in robust processes or advanced technologies but in the strength and well-being of the workforce. Jorge Delgado, an on-farm specialist with Alltech, believes the solution to many challenges begins with a shift in mindset concerning human resources. He emphasizes that fostering a productive work environment doesn’t necessarily require hefty investments but does demand time, dedication and the right strategies.
The Culture of Respect and Retention
Originally from Ecuador, Delgado’s journey brought him to the U.S. nearly 20 years ago. His invaluable experiences across multiple dairies as a herd manager have paved the way for his current focus: empowering dairy workers in Minneapolis. He advocates for establishing and maintaining respect, open communication and a safe environment to attract and retain employees.
Like many farms, Vir-Clar Farms in Fond du Lac, Wis., has faced its share of labor challenges. However, they’ve adopted an innovative approach to monitor the well-being of their team: the amount of vacation time employees are due. Recognizing longevity, they recently celebrated an employee’s 25 years of service.
“They have to put a year in before they get vacation hours,” Vir-Clar Farm owner, Katie Grinstead says. In 2024, one of their employees, Joaquin Vasquez, who has been with the farm for more than 14 years received Farm Journal’s Milk Business Employee of Excellence Award.
Vir-Clar’s vision underscores the importance of creating a positive working atmosphere, prompting the introduction of a ride-share program about five years ago.
“We knew of another farmer doing this and thought it could work for us, too,” Grinstead says. With most employees living in Fond du Lac and the farm lacking housing, commuting support became pivotal.
Incentive Programs Fueling Morale
Their efforts extend beyond just transportation. Vir-Clar offers a range of incentives such as celebrating birthdays, hosting a Christmas party, providing holiday bonuses and organizing a summer picnic. A referral bonus strategy further strengthens their employee retention, recognizing both referrer and newcomer if they stay on for 30 days and beyond.
Additionally, the farm emphasizes internal promotions, building loyalty by first looking within before hiring outside talent.
“If you can get employees to stay, they get to see all of the benefits we offer,” Grinstead highlights. A clean and fun work environment is pivotal, yet she acknowledges that some turnover is inevitable.
Grinstead believes there’s no secret recipe for retaining employees but points to several essential practices: fostering a welcoming, secure and enjoyable work environment, integrating fun into daily operations and celebrating the contributions of staff as if they were part of the family because, indeed, they are. For Vir-Clar Farms, establishing a supportive work culture is an ongoing endeavor toward which they collectively strive daily.
“We couldn’t do what we do every day without our team,” Grinstead concludes. “To be successful, we need a group of people who are committed to being part of our vision. Building this doesn’t happen overnight; it’s cultivated through intentional actions every single day.”
Through these enlightened practices, Vir-Clar animates a landscape of employee retention and satisfaction, demonstrating that strategic workforce management is indeed vital to maximizing farm success.
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