Leer en Español
The Farm Hub’s Farm Mechanic Basics training for Spanish speakers continues to grow. This fall the program welcomed twice as many participants than in previous years. The 8-session training provides hands-on experience in agricultural mechanics, including topics such as tractor parts and systems, diagnostics, safety, and repair – all in Spanish.
Instructor Shane LaBrake and Farm Hub’s production team members, Jesus Gonzalez Jr., Jesus Gonzalez Sr., and Jaime Villegas, led the class.
The workshop concluded at the end of November with a DIY project and a “graduation ceremony” with certificates of completion.
Gaby Pereyra, co-owner of Yara Farms in Middletown, NY, said the training gave her a foundation in mechanics and boosted her confidence in operating equipment. She plans to manage equipment maintenance this season rather than pay for outside services.
“I know [when] the oil needs to be changed, and I now understand why and how, and if I don’t change it, what will happen with the engine,” she said. “The class has helped me to demystify the basics of mechanics.”
The workshop offered plenty of hands-on opportunities. Students were encouraged to take control of their equipment maintenance. From oil changes to small equipment repairs, participants learned how to keep their farm machinery running smoothly.
“For me, the most exciting is always fostering empowerment.” They can do these things!” said LaBrake, a seasoned agricultural trainer and consultant. “It is wonderful seeing their faces light up as they start to really grasp how an engine works.”
-Amy Wu