Hiring help can be one of the most advantageous moves that a farrier makes. Yet, it also can be daunting, especially when the arrangement ends unexpectedly.

An American Farriers Journal internet poll finds that the vast majority do not look positively on hiring. When asked about their experiences, 75% say that it’s typically a struggle finding and retaining apprentices. Another 24% say that finding and retaining apprentices is a mixed bag. Just 1% say it’s typically a smooth process.

The difference between a successful and unsuccessful hire can be found in the subtle details of the hiring process. Dave and Jay Farley, a father-and-son farrier team from Coshocton, Ohio, and Wellington, Fla., have reaped the rewards of good help because of a process that they follow before green-lighting a hire.

“A farrier’s career is so limited, to begin with,” Farley says. “When they don’t have a good, qualified associate, their longevity and income are stunted. I see farriers who are a lot younger than me who struggle physically. Hiring good associates can easily extend your career because they do 50% or more of the labor. They also can significantly increase their production.”

Apprentice vs. Associate

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