Training Spanish-speaking livestock workers

Theory and practice

Abstract

In this decade, Hispanics are projected to be the fastest growing minority group in the USA. With greater numbers of non-English-speaking, foreign-born workers employed in the animal agricultural industries, language and cultural barriers may exacerbate pre-existing shortcomings with personnel management and worker training on certain operations. Improved worker training methods have recently been identified by Colorado dairy producers as a priority issue. However, there appears to be much variability in the Colorado dairy industry in the method of delivery of such training, its nature and scope, and its efficacy in preparing workers for their jobs. Veterinarians can play a key role in improving worker training on livestock operations by assuming a greater role as trainers of the dairy workforce, particularly in regard to skills that involve direct interactions with animals, such as sick cow identification and treatment, calving management and milking parlour procedures. Cultural sensitivity, bilingual teaching aids, hands-on demonstrations, consistent follow-up and retraining, outcome assessment and patience are necessary to maximize the benefit of such educational initiatives.