MKC to use KFB’s RKAP to bring Kansans career opportunities through apprenticeships in agriculture

MOUNDRIDGE, Kan. – Mid-Kansas Cooperative (MKC) is pleased to announce the launch of an apprenticeship program to hire agricultural equipment operators, CDL drivers and operations specialists through Kansas Farm Bureau’s (KFB) Rural Kansas Apprenticeship Program (RKAP). 
 
“This apprenticeship program formalizes the training and opportunities for career growth that have existed at MKC for years. We believe that clarifying our commitment through this opportunity provides people with or without agricultural experience a clear path to a rewarding role in our organization.” – Anne Anderton Warren, Executive Vice President & Chief Talent Officer, MKC.
 
The program is designed to provide on-the-job training and technical instruction to employees hired into specific entry-level operations positions. Apprentices will be recruited, interviewed, hired and employed by MKC. 
 
KFB will serve as the intermediary sponsor working with MKC and The Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship to assist in the administration of these apprenticeship opportunities. These apprenticeships will provide MKC with additional value proposition for attracting new employees and apprentices in these roles. Apprentices will receive mentorship, training and compensation while developing skills in a high-demand agriculture career path.
 
RKAP is the first-ever registered apprenticeship program focused on agriculture and rural Kansas. With its broad charter, RKAP has the capability to bring this innovative education and employment opportunity to communities across the state. 
 
“MKC is an excellent partner because like KFB, they serve farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses. KFB is excited to develop a program where MKC and its employees can grow alongside each other to support agriculture and rural Kansas.” – Joel Leftwich, KFB’s chief strategy officer.
 
If you are interested in partnering with Kansas Farm Bureau in an apprenticeship program, contact Joel Leftwich at leftwichj@kfb.org or visit www.kfb.org/RKAP. 
 
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About MKC
MKC (Mid Kansas Cooperative) is a full-service farm cooperative offering a complete line of products, programs, and services for both farm and urban customers throughout Kansas and the surrounding states. With a current membership of over 11,000 members, MKC specializes in grain, agronomy, energy, feed and risk management. MKC services an additional 8,000 customers through their wholly owned independent ag retailer, Mid-West Fertilizer. Since its founding in 1965, MKC has expanded its footprint through mergers and acquisitions to meet the needs of the producer. Learn more about MKC at mkcoop.com and follow the MKC story on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
 
About Kansas Farm Bureau
Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) is a non-profit advocacy organization established in 1919. More than 100 years later, KFB stands up for its members through leadership development, agriculture education, legal defense, environmental advocacy, farm safety, risk management, rural development and international trade. As a grassroots organization, there is a county Farm Bureau in each of Kansas' 105 counties. Kansas Farm Bureau, the state organization, is in Manhattan. Visit www.kfb.org to learn more.