IL livestock apprenticeship lets students go hog wild with debt-free tuition, certificates

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Several college students across the state will have a new way to learn about agriculture while getting their education—and it involves pigs.

The Illinois Pork Producers Association announced in a Sept. 8 press release that a new livestock apprenticeship program will be available at five Illinois community colleges.

Participating colleges include Lincoln Land Community College in Springfield, Lake Land Community College in Mattoon, Kaskaskia College in Centralia, John Wood Community College in Quincy and Illinois Central College in East Peoria.

Illinois Pork said the program will provide participating students with debt-free tuition and a livestock certificate for serving as an apprentice at a pork producer.

Interested apprentices will work as a swine technician, responsible for the day-to-day care of pigs.

The release added that students will be expected to work on the farm and complete the requirements listed in their respective job position to receive their certificate after two years.

Those interested in learning more about the apprenticeship can contact Illinois Pork Executive Director Jennifer Tirey at jennifer@ilpork.com.