We are excited to introduce Nikki Enersen, the new Lead of the American Association of AgLabor Providers (AAALP). With a strong commitment to ethical labor practices and industry collaboration, Nikki brings fresh energy and a clear vision to support farm labor contractors and recruiters and strengthen responsible recruitment and fair labor practices across U.S. agriculture.
1. Can you tell us a bit about your background and what drew you to AAALP?
I like to describe myself as a small-town girl with an international perspective. I grew up in rural Minnesota, the daughter of public-school teachers and granddaughter of Scandinavian immigrants to Dakota land, a region of America that is dependent on the agricultural sector. Like many Midwesterners, my grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, and many in my extended family are and were farmers. My community has changed, and fewer U.S.-born families remain on their smallholder farms, but we have been blessed to continue to welcome new Americans to work in the growing agricultural sector. The demographic shift has not been without its challenges, but the fact is that many of the companies which my town relies upon would have closed if immigrants had not taken up the positions and contributed their expertise. I am invigorated by the opportunity, at this critical juncture, to work with AAALP to ensure that America’s agricultural sector can thrive and that we work together to increase the well-being of our ag businesses and workers.
I was a US diplomat for 16 years and I look forward to bringing both my rural Minnesotan perspectives and my experiences from working globally on labor and human rights issues, such as supporting the expansion of H2 programs and youth workforce development in Central America to the work which we are doing together with AAALP and Stronger Together.
2. What do you believe are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing ag businesses such as FLCs and recruiters today?
One of the biggest challenges right now is the regulatory environment—it’s especially complex, with shifting immigration policies, evolving federal guidance, and significant differences in state-level requirements and approaches. Keeping up with these changes is difficult, to say the least, and will take time and resources.
At the same time, there’s a growing opportunity. More buyers, retailers, and consumers are paying attention to how labor is sourced and managed. This creates space for reputable FLCs and recruiters to stand out and show leadership in responsible recruitment. FLCs and recruiters play a vital role in helping the agricultural industry meet urgent labor needs, yet their contributions are often overshadowed by the actions of inexperienced or unethical actors. At AAALP, we’re committed to recognizing our members’ good practices and helping them meet challenges. We have a dedicated team and a community of peers working toward a common vision.
3. What are your top priorities for AAALP over the next 12-18 months?
Over the next year, my main priority is to serve our membership by making sure AAALP is a trusted source of clarity and community in what is a complex and changing compliance landscape at federal and state levels. I have been impressed to learn how innovative, committed and just plain good AAALP members are at meeting compliance challenges and providing valuable services to the market. Over the next few months, AAALP will focus on offering opportunities for members to learn from each other through sharing best practices and experiences from the field. I want anyone looking at us to know that AAALP is here to support success. We’re building a network where ethics and business goals align, and no one has to navigate the journey alone.
4. How do you plan to engage with members and ensure their voices are heard in shaping AAALP’s direction?
I am still in “listening and learning” mode—eager to hear directly from members and stakeholders about what’s working, what’s needed, and how AAALP can best support them. I welcome every opportunity for conversation and hope to get on the road soon to meet members in their home states and communities. We’re also launching a monthly “FLC Exchange” starting in July—a space for members to come together, share practical solutions, and discuss the issues that matter most. Our first session will focus on immigration policy and its impact on labor access.
AAALP was built on member input from the start, thanks to the guidance of our first Development Advisory Committee (DAC), which played a critical role in shaping the organization. Looking ahead, we’re committed to building that foundation by inviting members and stakeholders into new governance structures, including the formation of a Board of Directors.
5. For those who are new to AAALP or considering membership, what would you say is the greatest value in being part of this community?
AAALP is the only national trade association dedicated to educating and supporting farm labor contractors and recruiters in agriculture. We exist to help members do their work well—and be recognized for it. That means helping members gain visibility, whether it’s with clients, regulators, or as a respected voice within the industry. It also means helping members stay ahead of shifting requirements, build strong businesses rooted in ethical practices, and connect with peers who understand the unique challenges of this field.
Members have access to a growing set of practical tools and training modules that support implementation of national and international frameworks—like the Ethical Charter on Responsible Labor Practices—and help strengthen responsible recruitment practices.
Whether you are looking for guidance, connection, or a trusted source of up-to-date information, we invite you to register your interest https://aaalp.org/contact/.
6. Finally, what is something about you—personal or professional—that people might be surprised to learn?
Life took me away from rural Minnesota as I joined USAID’s foreign service. I spent two decades overseas, in Africa, Central America, and Asia, working to improve well-being and reduce poverty in our globally connected world. I have traveled to over 60 countries and absolutely love to experience live music and dance (poorly) whenever I travel! I have a double bachelor’s degree in international relations and anthropology and did a concentration on ethnomusicology for the fun of it while an undergrad.
Want to connect? Drop Nikki an email at nikki@aaalp.org.
