It’s no secret that labor is a huge issue in agriculture. For custom farmers, labor is a major challenge — yet, there are men and women employed by custom farmers in Wisconsin who make significant contributions to their teams.  

Wisconsin Custom Operators Inc. is honoring an employee of a custom farming operation who demonstrates excellence in the areas of safety, efficiency, customer service, environmental stewardship and profitability. The award is particularly focused on acknowledging and recognizing member-employee contributions beyond the normal job expectations.

All employees, both full-time and part-time, of a WCO member-business are eligible for the award. The individual must have been employed by a WCO member during the last calendar year prior to the award year. The winner will receive $750 and the nominator will receive $250.

“Many of our members have had the same crew for several years. These employees are highly skilled and keep our businesses going during the height of the season,” says Bryce O’Leary, WCO president. “Their commitment to safety, the environment and our clients is outstanding — and this award is our opportunity to honor them.”

Applications for the 2017 WCO Employee of the Year award will be accepted until Dec. 1. Interested members should visit wiscustomoperators.org for more information and an application.

Last January, WCO honored Steve Burclaw, an employee of Biadasz Farms, Amherst, Wis., as the first-ever WCO Employee of the Year.

Source: WCO