This program is designed to increase the professional abilities of agricultural employees (and their contributions to operations) through a greater understanding of Horticultural science; current production technology; the English language and communication skills; mathematics; computers; and cultural and social systems. The Hispanic Orchard Employee Education Program (HOEEP) consists of approximately 19 weeks of instruction beginning in mid-October and continuing until mid-March. Classes are held three times each week in four-hour blocks from mid-afternoon to early evening. Classes take place in communities throughout Central Washington as well as on the Wenatchee campus. Students should have basic English conversational skills and some ability to read and write in Spanish. Regular attendance is a necessity; therefore students (and their employers) must be committed to attending all classes to obtain maximum benefits and to complete the program. Academic preparation may allow students to take some of the first-year tree fruit production program's agricultural courses on an independent study basis. Eligibility for this program will be determined by instructors on a case-by-case basis.