The Wisconsin Honey Producers Association continues to bring young people into an aging industry through its Youth Scholar Program, which provides equipment, bees, and mentorship to aspiring beekeepers ages 12 to 18.
“We as an industry recognize that we are an aging group and we really need to bring in more youth beekeepers,” says board member Stephanie Slater.
Launched in 2020, the program supplies beginners with gear, bees, and a mentor for two years.
“As long as the kids are able to successfully complete all of the requirements of the program, we turn all of that over to them,” Slater explains. By the end of this year, the association will have had 18 graduates, with another round of applications waiting for review.
Slater says beekeeping often attracts older generations due to its physical demands and family traditions. “Grandpa kept bees. Dad kept bees. I kept bees,” she says as an example, adding that some younger people choose different paths. That makes recruitment critical for agriculture and food supply.
Graduates have pursued a range of interests while staying connected to bees.
“One of the first kids I mentored…he wants to be a doctor. But yet he’s still keeping bees,” Slater says.
Another former participant is now applying for the 2026 Wisconsin Honey Queen. Beyond beekeeping skills, the program develops responsibility and communication. Students write monthly newsletter updates and give presentations.
“Some of those soft skills have kind of organically started to develop with this program,” Slater notes.
The program’s value exceeds $1,000 per student, supported by donors and bee suppliers who contribute bees, equipment, and discounts. Thanks to that support, the association expects to fund three to four youth scholars in 2026.
“It is always a priority to continue to bring more youth into our industry,” Slater says.
