Practical Internship Program
Every year, the Société Apicole du Québec offers young enthusiasts the opportunity to gain practical experience in beekeeping. This program is for those who wish to complement their theoretical training by managing an apiary of 10 to 25 colonies, under real-world conditions and supervised by a beekeeper.
The internship will take place from mid-May to mid-September. It will begin with a first visit to the apiary in the spring, followed by an inspection every two weeks. Throughout the meetings, the intern will be able to document their observations, create nucs, carry out necessary hive treatments, harvest honey, and participate in the extraction process. In the fall, they will take part in feeding the colonies and, in November, in winterizing the apiary.
In total, the program represents approximately twelve full days in the field, offering concrete and comprehensive experience in apiary management through all stages of the beekeeping season.
A formula adapted to experienced interns
Interns who already have some experience can choose a formula that offers them more responsibility and autonomy. They will manage the apiary more independently, while still having access to their supervisor for advice and support as needed.
The following spring, autonomous interns receive a complete hive, including bees, for every two hives managed, to help them build their own stock and take their first steps towards professional beekeeping.
To be eligible, candidates must have undertaken either theoretical training (online) from the Société Apicole du Québec, or an AEC in apiary business management from Cégep d’Alma. As the number of places is limited, a rigorous selection process by interview is carried out. Only the most motivated, serious, and committed candidates will be selected to ensure the success and sustainability of their beekeeping project.