View all AgWorks agricultural law programs on the Center’s
AgWorks Homepage
Materials:
- PowerPoint: AgWorks 1. Foundations of the Employer–Employee Relationship
- Recording: AgWorks 1. Foundations of the Employer–Employee Relationship
On September 30, 2025, from 12 noon–2:00 pm ET, the Center for Agricultural and Shale Law, alongside Penn State Extension and sponsored by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry through funding from the U.S. Department of Labor, will present the first agricultural law webinar in the AgWorks program:
Webinar No. 1. Foundations of the Employer–Employee Relationship
Gain a solid foundation in employment law tailored for farm and food business operators during this essential kickoff to the AgWorks webinar series.
This session offers a comprehensive overview of the legal dynamics between employers and employees, including employment-at-will, contracts, agency relationships, and the distinctions between employees and independent contractors. Participants will explore how these legal principles shape everyday operations and influence management decisions, liability, and regulatory compliance.
During an optional second hour, participants may ask legal questions and share examples for discussion with the attorneys. This webinar sets the stage for future sessions in the series, providing the critical knowledge needed to navigate labor laws confidently and protect your business.
- Owners of farm, food, forestry, and agribusinesses
- Operations managers
- Human resource managers
- Recruiters
- Definitions and classifications
- Employment-at-will and employment contracts
- Master–servant, agency, and vicarious liability
- W-2s and 1099s
Funding for this Program is provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry and Pennsylvania CareerLink®. This project is funded 100% with federal funds from a U.S. Department of Labor grant totaling $1,325,699.00 and 0% ($0.00) non-federal funds. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. This is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. For more information, visit AgWorks.
To help track grant reach and eligibility, participants will be asked questions about their farm or agribusiness during registration. Responses will remain confidential and will not be shared outside the project team.
Registration is required to receive the link to access the webinar.
Please note: The Ag Law Center provides educational support and resources only and does not offer legal representation.
Attorney CLE is NOT available for this program.
AgWorks: Connecting Agricultural Businesses to Workforce Services and Training
Project Background
From 2025 to 2027, Penn State Extension and the Penn State Center for Agricultural and Shale Law will collaborate with farms and agriculture-related businesses to strengthen the workforce system. This initiative aims to support employers, expand opportunities for workers, and enhance employment conditions throughout the agricultural sector.
Workforce Help for Farms and Agribusinesses
AgWorks will provide 100 registered small- to medium-sized Pennsylvania farms and agribusinesses with no-cost training and consultation in the following areas to ensure business sustainability:
- Hiring and Retention
- Business Operations
- Compensation and Benefits
- Legal Counseling *
- Health and Safety
- PA CareerLink® services to help farms and Agribusinesses
Additional resources may be available to those who register and consult with their Workforce Consultant.
Webinars and Private Consultation
Over the next two years, we will offer over 90 webinars that will be recorded and available to those participating. The webinars are open to participating organizations and their employees.
Registered participants can also speak with their workforce consultants to utilize tailored consulting and other services that fit their professional needs.
Register for the AgWorks Program
To participate in the AgWorks program, complete the intake form, which includes a brief survey that will help us understand the challenges that businesses face.
For more information about the program, contact agworks@psu.edu.
For more information about the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry’s training and services, visit their website.
