Each year, thousands of agricultural workers play a vital role in keeping North Carolina’s farms productive and sustainable. At the same time there are many Spanish-speaking farmworkers, needing training to obtain a Private Pesticide Applicator Certification. However, there are challenges due to language barriers, cost, or lack of tailored resources.
To help address this gap, North Carolina Cooperative Extension is proud to offer free, virtual preparation courses in Spanish during the summer of 2025. These courses are designed specifically to help Spanish-speaking workers prepare for the NC Private Pesticide Applicator Certification Exam, opening the door to safer, more informed pesticide use and new professional opportunities.
Building Skills for Safer Farms
Pesticide safety is a critical part of protecting worker health and farm productivity. When workers have access to culturally and linguistically appropriate training, they are better equipped to handle agricultural chemicals responsibly. This means fewer risks of exposure, improved compliance with regulations, and stronger outcomes for the entire farm operation.
The virtual courses offer participants:
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A clear overview of exam topics
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Real-world examples relevant to agricultural work in North Carolina
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Instruction delivered primarily in Spanish
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Opportunities to ask questions and review key concepts
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Support with navigating the certification process
Upon registration, participants will receive Zoom links to join the sessions from the comfort of their home or workplace.
Why This Matters
For many farmworkers, certification can lead to greater job stability, new leadership roles, and a deeper sense of contribution to the farm. Beyond individual growth, this effort strengthens the agricultural workforce by promoting safer practices and improving communication across teams.
Register Today – It’s Free!
There is no cost to register or participate in the courses.
