SALINAS, CA – The Agriculture and Land-Based Training Association (ALBA) is proud to spotlight its transformative Programa Educativo para Agricultores (PEPA), a comprehensive training program empowering farmworkers to transition into successful organic farmers. This program is reshaping agriculture in the Salinas Valley, offering Latino farmworkers the tools and knowledge to create brighter futures for themselves and their families.

Through a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on fieldwork, PEPA provides aspiring farmers with the skills needed to launch and manage their own organic farming businesses. Over the course of the program, participants master key areas of sustainable agriculture, including pest and irrigation management, crop planning, and organic certification standards.

“We see incredible potential in the farmworkers we serve,” says Patricia Carrillo, Executive Director of ALBA. “Through the PEPA program, we’re opening the door for them to become independent farmers and leaders in sustainable agriculture.”

Hands-On Learning with a Purpose

The PEPA program goes beyond theory, giving participants practical experience in every step of farming, from seed to harvest.

• Pest and Irrigation Management: Participants learn from industry experts like Martin Guerena from the National Center for Appropriate Technology and Laura Murphy from the Resource Conservation District of Monterey County. These sessions teach students how to sustainably manage pests and conserve groundwater resources.
• Tractor Operation and Equipment Use: ALBA’s Sustainable Farming Advisor, Albert Fraide, trains participants in land preparation and equipment operation, ensuring they are ready to manage their own farms.
• Crop Trials and Harvests: PEPA participants test new specialty crops, such as frisee, in ALBA’s demonstration fields. This practical training prepares them for real-world farming challenges and market demands.

“Harvesting specialty crops has been an eye-opening experience,” shares Yuni Silva, a PEPA participant. “It’s given me confidence that I can succeed in this industry.”

Success Stories and Future Farmers

The success of the PEPA program is evident in the achievements of its graduates, who go on to launch their own farming enterprises or secure roles in sustainable agriculture.

• Former PEPA student Gonzalo Najera now operates his own farm and trains others in sustainable pest management.
• Alejandra Madrigal, another graduate, shared her passion for farming, saying, “This work is in my heart. ALBA has given me the opportunity to live my dream.”

Building a Brighter Future

ALBA’s PEPA program is part of a larger mission to uplift farmworkers and build a sustainable food system. With ongoing support from donors, ALBA is poised to expand its impact through the development of the Farmworker Opportunity Center, a $2 million initiative to further empower aspiring farmers.

“Programs like PEPA are critical to transforming lives and creating opportunities,” says Nathan Harkleroad, Program Director. “We’re building a future where farmworkers are not just employees but leaders in sustainable agriculture.”

About ALBA

The Agriculture and Land-Based Training Association (ALBA) provides aspiring farmers with the education, tools, and resources needed to succeed in organic farming. By empowering farmworkers to become independent farmers, ALBA strengthens communities, supports sustainable agriculture, and builds pathways out of poverty.

For more information about ALBA and the PEPA program, visit www.albafarmers.org.