US: Dairy Sector Grapples with Lingering Staff Shortages Post-COVID
Source: The DairyNews
The dairy sector continues to face significant challenges in finding and retaining skilled workers, even as the world moves past the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite improvements from the height of the crisis, many dairy farms are still struggling with staffing issues due to financial constraints and a shortage of qualified personnel. Jane Muir, leader of DairyNZ's people team, emphasizes that the situation varies depending on each farm's financial circumstances, with some experiencing high levels of stress and others managing to absorb the costs.
While a recent DairyNZ survey suggests that some farmers view the current situation as "business as usual," Muir notes that the industry has reverted to staffing shortages reminiscent of pre-pandemic times. Additionally, the evolving nature of farming, driven by technological advancements like cow collars, necessitates workers with different skill sets, prompting farmers to invest in upskilling their staff.
To attract and retain talent, dairy farms must offer competitive packages that go beyond salary, including benefits like housing and flexible working hours. Moreover, there is a growing recognition within the sector of the importance of effective leadership in managing staff. Muir highlights the efforts of upcoming sharemilkers and contract milkers who prioritize leadership and strive to create supportive work environments.
As the dairy sector grapples with ongoing staffing challenges, it must continue to adapt and invest in its workforce to ensure long-term sustainability and success.
While a recent DairyNZ survey suggests that some farmers view the current situation as "business as usual," Muir notes that the industry has reverted to staffing shortages reminiscent of pre-pandemic times. Additionally, the evolving nature of farming, driven by technological advancements like cow collars, necessitates workers with different skill sets, prompting farmers to invest in upskilling their staff.
To attract and retain talent, dairy farms must offer competitive packages that go beyond salary, including benefits like housing and flexible working hours. Moreover, there is a growing recognition within the sector of the importance of effective leadership in managing staff. Muir highlights the efforts of upcoming sharemilkers and contract milkers who prioritize leadership and strive to create supportive work environments.
As the dairy sector grapples with ongoing staffing challenges, it must continue to adapt and invest in its workforce to ensure long-term sustainability and success.
