Global Cow, a dairy exchange program founded over 30 years ago, offers unique international learning experiences on dairy farms. The program brings individuals from around the world to work and learn on U.S. dairy farms for one year. Participants gain hands-on experience, rotating through various areas of farm operations.
Jill Stahl-Tyler, owner of Global Cow, explains, “Participants don’t just milk cows. They learn every part of the operation, from genetic selection to milking protocols.” The exchange is designed for cultural and professional growth, both for participants and the hosting farms.
Farms self-select to participate, understanding the commitment required to host and train international trainees. Stahl-Tyler shares, “The first six months involve training, but by the second six months, they’re valuable employees. Hosts also need to be open to cultural exchanges since most participants don’t speak English as their first language.”
Many Wisconsin farms have participated in the program. While most participants come to the U.S., some Americans have taken the opportunity to learn abroad. One woman who worked in New Zealand 30 years ago said, ‘It changed my life.’”
Over the years, Global Cow has impacted thousands of lives. “I estimate we’ve worked with around 3,000 people through this program,” Stahl-Tyler notes. She reflects on one participant who traveled between Argentina, New Zealand, and the U.S., eventually becoming a dairy farmer in New Zealand. “He credits his success to this program,” she adds.
Looking forward, Stahl-Tyler hopes to expand opportunities with the J-1 visa program, which faced setbacks during the pandemic. She remains optimistic, saying, “We’re ready to rebuild and provide more opportunities for cultural and professional exchanges.”
For those interested in hosting or participating, Stahl-Tyler encourages visiting www.GlobalCow.com. “The website has all the details, including costs and how to get started,” she says.
This program not only enriches individual lives but also strengthens the global dairy industry through shared knowledge and experiences. As Stahl-Tyler puts it, “In the end, this is about personal growth, industry improvement, and building connections across the world.”