P.PSH.1189 - Future Livestock Consultants 3

Summary

Future Livestock Consultants 3 (FLC3) aimed to address the issue of a decline in extension service delivery, stimulating the private sector to grow and meet the needs of red meat producers.

FLC3 builds on the success of two previous programs each operating as the 'Livestock Consulting Internship'. Introducing 10 new livestock consultants to the industry nationally per program, the network of program graduates increases to 29 at the conclusion of FLC3.

Objectives

The objectives of the program were to:
• conduct a scoping study to define the program objectives and design the program itself
• recruit 10 employers, 10 interns and implement the two-year program
• undertake an appropriate evaluation of the program.

Key findings

Results of the program were:
• a two-year program delivered for 10 employers and participant interns
• a program that required significant and ongoing alterations to account for state-based travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic
• 30% have maintained employment with the participating employer. 70% of participants have transferred into new roles post the program. Although not a new phenomenon, the rate of change is higher than previous programs.
• 90% of participants maintain an ongoing engagement and commitment to the red meat sector.
• participants reported a nearly 69% overall increase of confidence in the skills required to both operate and further develop a career as a livestock consultant and successfully assist red meat producers.

Benefits to industry

Based on the feedback provided by employers and interns through post program reflections, high engagement with the adjusted program through increased webinars and training sessions has seen 90% of the participants remaining in the red meat industry. This ongoing commitment provides strength to the industry with individuals engaged through the supportive collegiate environment and direct interaction with MLA staff. In addition, the altered program fast tracked the introduction and interaction with previous FLC participants, enhancing their support network, while motivating the LCI Alumni.

MLA action

Investigate what FLC4 could look like and maintain contact with alumni.

Future research

Based on the feedback and anecdotal evidence from FLC3, the following key learnings are recommendations for similar programs:
• Although previous programs have focused on developing a collegiate group environment as a priority, a focus on training activities first will provide focus and intentionality for the group, while the group development can follow the typical lifecycle of a group.
• Focus future participation on those committed to industry and livestock consulting as a career. Although hard to define, the FLC3 program cohort were intentionally younger and hence more likely to change career and personal focus than those older and established in the industry.
• An ongoing approach to increased interaction with established alumni would aide in the development of future industry projects, general collegiate support and encouragement as well as presenting the opportunity for alumni-based events where MLA can have direct interaction with all current and past participants.