On Farm Internships

Since this association was started, one goal has been to ensure the sustainability of the dairy industry by fostering the next generation to continue the dairy farming heritage. For many years those efforts have involved encouraging ag students to have a real-life farm experience through a summer internship with a PDMP member. These internships also help the dairy producers establish a pool of potential permanent employees, making it a win/win situation.

Today we combine our financial grants for interns with those provided by the PA Dairymen's Association and the Center for Dairy Excellence, so more students can participate in the 10 – 12 week internship program that provides on-farm learning experiences to the next generation of dairy professionals and managers in Pennsylvania.

To qualify for the internship:

  • Farms: may be located within or outside of Pennsylvania, but producers must agree to provide the intern with exposure to all aspects of a successful, progressive dairy operation. Read more about Farm Expectations.
  • Students: must attend a Pennsylvania university, a Pennsylvania resident attending an out-of-state school or a recently-graduated Pennsylvania resident with an interest in dairy production. Preference is given to upperclassmen undergraduates. Read more about Intern Expectations.

Student applications are due by November 1, 2022, and host farm applications are due by November 15, 2022.

Click HERE for Online Student Application

Click HERE for Online Host Farm Application

For host farms who have participated in the past and want to apply again, please CLICK HERE to complete the shorter application form.

Have questions about the on-farm internship program? Emal Michelle Shearer or call 570-768-8316