MARSHALLTOWN – Iowa Valley Continuing Education will be offering a Commercial Applicator class starting Monday, Jan. 9 through Friday, January 12 from 10:00 am – 6 pm at the Agriculture and Renewable Energy Center, 707 Ellsworth Ave. in Iowa Falls, IA. This class meets the needs of local agricultural companies looking to fill applicator openings this spring.

Mike Mitchell, GROWMARK’s Senior Manager of Human Resource Employment shared, “One of the ongoing challenges for FS/GROWMARK is hiring qualified candidates for our Applicator positions. There is a definite gap in skills for this role,” commented Mitchell. “This is a common challenge for other agricultural cooperatives as well.”

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Iowa is the 4th highest state for employment in the applicator field. “There is a continued demand for the Applicator role. Employees have opportunities to move into other roles within the company that advances their career,” said Mitchell.

This is for pesticide certification only and no mechanical sprayer work will be included. State exams to become certified will be held on January 16. Cost of the program is $799. GAP Tuition Funding is available for those who qualify. Call to set up an appointment with either Jennifer Rice at 641-844-5629 in Marshall, Tama and Poweshiek County or Amee Miller, 641-648-8527 in Hardin County.

To register for the class (course number IND 2700.2) or receive more information, call IVCE at 641-752-4645.