LAEP Program

**Unlocking Success: Latino Agriculture Education for Viticulture Program**

We're excited to bring insights into our transformative Latino Agriculture Education for Viticulture Program (LAEP). Established in 2006, this program is a collaborative effort between the Washington Winegrowers, Wenatchee Valley Community College, and Yakima Valley College, aimed at empowering individuals within the viticulture industry.

Empowerment Through Knowledge:

The heart of the Latino Agriculture Education for Viticulture Program lies in its purpose: to provide participants with hands-on knowledge and practical skills that can be immediately applied to enhance their daily vineyard practices. The program spans an entire grape production season and encompasses critical areas such as marketing, human resources, and vineyard practices. Conducted primarily in English, this approach not only fosters language proficiency but also promotes holistic personal development.

Advancing Expertise with LAEP:

Our program offers various levels of expertise to cater to individuals at different stages of their viticulture journey. Let's take a closer look at two of these levels:

Level 1

This course is designed for Latino employees in the field of viticulture. The curriculum introduces students to the “whys” of the many production and management practices of winegrapes and their juices. Topics include without limitation, wine industry historical perspectives, vine physiology, canopy management, soils, irrigation, nutrition, thinning, harvest, wine, marketing and vineyard management. Taught in Spanish, the course emphasizes applied math and English winegrape production terminology.

Level 2

Advanced Viticulture (taught primarily in Spanish, integrating with English):

Designed for Latino employees looking to deepen their viticulture expertise, Level 2 builds upon the foundational knowledge gained in Level 1. Participants can expect to:
Delve into advanced production systems, wine grape management, and juice production.
Study vital aspects, including site selection, vineyard establishment, pest management, and irrigation practices.
Hone soft skills, English language proficiency, and management techniques to excel in their roles. Prerequisite: Completion of Level 1.

Level 3

Vineyard Management and Integrated Pest Management (taught primarily in Spanish, integrating with English):

Geared towards Spanish-speaking vineyard employees aspiring for leadership roles, Level 3 offers:
Intensive technical training, equipping participants for mid-management and leadership positions.
Advanced pest management techniques and insights into vineyard economics.
A refined understanding of management principles for sustainable success. Prerequisites: Completion of Level 1 and Level 2.

Looking Ahead:

For those looking to begin their journey or continue their growth, we're excited to announce that our Level 1 -- Introduction to Viticulture course, as well as Level 3 -- Vineyard Management and Integrated Pest Management, will be offered in Fall 2024.

Affordable Excellence:

We understand the importance of accessible education. Each level of the program costs $325, ensuring that valuable knowledge is within reach for all aspiring viticulture enthusiasts.

To join us in this educational journey and secure your spot in our upcoming courses, visit our website to register. With the Latino Agriculture Education for Viticulture Program, you're not just learning but cultivating a brighter future for yourself and the viticulture community.

Stay tuned for more updates and success stories from our LAEP graduates. Together, let's grow and thrive!

Since 2006 the Washington Winegrowers has partnered with the Wenatchee Valley College and the Yakima Valley College for the LAEP program. The purpose of the program is to equip Spanish speaking viticulture employees with the technical expertise and resources that will allow them to advance and flourish within their profession.

Questions about any of these events? Email info@wawinegrowers.org.

2023-2024 Dates:

Classes start on Friday, November 3, 2023, and run through the end of March, 2024.
(Christmas break- last class on Friday, December 15 and back to class on Friday, January 5, 2024)
Graduation on Friday, March 15, 2024

Location:

Yakima Valley College- Grandview Campus

Cost: $325

This includes the weekly course as well as the Spanish language session at WineVit®.

Requirements:

Ability to read and write Spanish.
Basic English is not required