A newly created organization, the American Association of AgLabor Providers, is the first national trade association for farm labor contractors (FLCs) and recruiters. Officially launched in February, the organization is in partnership with Stronger Together U.S., a nonprofit that focuses on responsible recruitment and fair labor practices.
Nikki Enersen, association lead, says this organization is designed to address the need for standardized education, guidance and collaborative networks in the industry and it welcomes new members.
Enersen says this organization came out of a need to connect farm labor contractors and as agricultural labor becomes a critical need, so too the need for an association like the American Association of AgLabor Providers
“They often lacked, lack access to professional support, to training, to representation,” Enersen says.
Enerson says, too, there isn’t a unifying farm labor contractor organization in the country, and it’s important that the industry speak up about the role of farm labor contractors in the ag industry.
“One thing that people are saying is: ‘We’d really like to have an association that is talking about just how important this group is, how vital it is to our economy — in the U.S. as well as from the sending countries — and how important it is to build the economy back there,’” she says.
The organization has identified key priorities to support its members and advance ethical labor practices. These include enhancing reputation and market access, promoting industry professionalization, offering a network of like-minded, reputable businesses and building relationships with key stakeholders.
But, Enersen says as a trade association, much of its agenda will come from its members.
“We’re looking to build capacity with FLCs, to strengthen operations and to provide a space to connect with like-minded peers,” she says. “When I say like-minded, it’s organizations that are looking to be ethical, are looking to be legal, are wanting to raise the bar together, and therefore being able to have these conversations and partnerships improves their competitive edge.”
Benefits include
- Comprehensive training on responsible recruitment and labor management: Members have access to 12 interactive e-learning modules designed to provide in-depth knowledge of international, federal and state legal requirements and standards.
- Tailored implementation resources: Customized resources address the unique challenges faced by FLCs and recruiters.
- Collaborative industry network: Membership provides entry into a community of like-minded professionals and industry leaders, fostering opportunities for knowledge-sharing, partnerships and growth.
- Enhanced credibility and market positioning: Members benefit from recognition within the industry, reinforcing their reputation as reputable providers and opening doors to expanded market opportunities.
Enersen says she wants this organization to be as much for established farm labor contractors as for newer entries into the industry.
“We’re also looking at those who have been around for a few years, and those who are coming in, to be able to understand just how to be compliant and legal,” she says. “When they are figuring out how to be profitable and how to do it legally, we’re able to help them to do that.”
She also says professionalizing the labor provider industry will reduce risks for growers and enhance trust across the supply chain.
“A well-supported workforce leads to better retention of workers, reliability, productivity, ability to upscale,” she says. “The benefits should flow upward, to the farms, to the growers, to the retailers, the brands, and ultimately to [consumers].”
The association says it welcomes members and recruiters of any size and in any state. And those interested can visit their website to learn more about membership and to learn about associate membership or to become a service provider.
