Supporting Neurodiversity on the Farm

Creating a farm workplace where everyone can contribute and succeed starts with intentional environments, practices, and systems. This two-part series will explore how thoughtful approaches to communication, training, routines, expectations, and workplace design can create greater access for neurodivergent employees while also benefiting everyone on the farm.

On November 4th, Mallory Dockery of Bittersweet Farms will discuss how neurodivergent farmworkers may differ across communication, social skills, sensory processing, and executive functioning. She will share concrete examples of how to support these differences in a way that builds greater access across the entire farm environment.

On November 11th, Farmworker Trey Cochran will share examples of work environments that have supported him as a neurodivergent crew member. Farm employer Shiloh Avery will share her experiences fostering inclusive environments with the goal of prioritizing safety and open communication.

When: Sessions will take place over Zoom on November 4 and November 11 from 10:00-11:30am Central Time.

Who: These sessions are open to anyone, including farm employers, farmworkers, and agricultural and food systems professionals.

Other important notes: People who register will receive a recording of the sessions. The recording will include the formal presentation portion of each session. We will not record the Question & Answer portion.

This series is part of the LEAF program - Leadership Education for Ag Employers and Farmers. If you're a farm employer or experienced manager looking to strengthen your leadership and managerial skills in a peer learning environment, consider participating in the 2026 LEAF public training delivery for vegetable farmers. Sessions begin on November 9. For aspiring and early career farm managers looking for similar support, check out the TEAMs program which offers online training each March.

Contact Sarah Janes Ugoretz (sjanes@wisc.edu) with any questions.

LEAF and TEAMs programming is cohosted by UW SHALL, FairShare CSA Coalition, and Dane County Extension

The University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming in compliance with state and federal law.

This event will be conducted in English. You may request an interpreter, materials in an alternative language or format, or other services to make this event more accessible. Contact Sarah Janes Ugoretz at sjanes@wisc.edu or 262-825-8877 by Thursday, October 26th. There is no added cost to you for these services.