What is a DairyPro?
This exciting and rewarding certified apprenticeship program offers learners two potential industry recognized Certificate of Qualification. The program is open to individuals seeking careers in the dairy industry or those already in the industry wishing to earn their trade credential. Completion of Grade 10 including English and Science are recommended. Grade 12 graduation with Science and Biology is preferred. Successful completion of the program results in a DPT1 (Dairy Production Technician 1) and DPT2 (Dairy Production Technician 2-Herdsperson). These credentials may be transferrable to other areas in Canada.
During the program, students attend class several days during the month and work the remainder of the days on the farm of their Employer. Apprentices receive salary as negotiated with the Employer. Fair market value for salary is expected.
The program combines in-class instruction with on-farm work experience over a two-year period. Classroom session for Dairy Production Technician 1, begins October 31, 2011, and will take place in the Fraser Valley. Classroom instructors are Veterinarians who are experienced in all areas of Dairy production, health and maintenance.
The tentative schedule for the 2011 / 2012 DairyPro BC school year is as follows:
Monday, Oct 31 through Thursday, Nov 10th: 9 days
Monday, Jan 9th through Friday, Jan 13th: 5 days
Monday, Feb 6th through Friday, Feb 10th: 5 days
Monday, Feb 27th through Friday, March 2nd: 5 days
Once the student has completed the required 1000 hours of sponsored on farm work experience, they will write an examination. They must obtain 70% mark to pass the course. The student is then eligible for the second part of the program, Dairy Production Technician 2 (Herdsperson), which is planned to begin during the fall of 2011. Completion of the two year program results in a Certificate of Qualification as a Dairy Production Technician 2 (Herdsperson). This program is the first of its kind in British Columbia.
BC Dairy Association in conjunction with Horticulture Education BC (HEBC) and the Industry Training Authority (ITA) developed the DairyPro program in response to industry need for well trained, knowledgeable and experienced, Dairy Production Technicians.
2011 / 2012 tuition will be $1,000.00 + $120.00 (TAX) = $1,200.00 (Course books not included)
