The ASU-Beebe John Deere Agriculture Equipment Technology program recently won the 2023 College of Tomorrow award from John Deere, earning the highest ranking of platinum, a prestigious honor only given to John Deere training programs across the nation.
The John Deere TECH college partnership program evaluated the ASU-Beebe John Deere ag tech program in several key areas, including facilities, image, processes and training. Rankings of bronze, silver, gold and platinum are awarded, with platinum reserved for only those with the most exceptional programs.
The prize includes $1,000 for program scholarships, instructor training at one of John Deere’s facilities, a John Deere TECH College of Tomorrow jacket and a crystal trophy.
“We strive to stay abreast of technology. Students will be Level 2 certified when they graduate with the opportunity to be Level 3 Certified John Deere technicians,” said Jake Selvidge, director of ASU-Beebe’s John Deere agriculture equipment technology program.
The John Deere ag tech program is one of several unique programs offered at ASU-Beebe, with on-campus learning and hands-on educational experiences giving students the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in their field. Instructors are core and Level 3 certified John Deere service technicians who receive regular training on advancements in the industry.
ASU-Beebe also has the only virtual John Deere ag tech program in the nation. The virtual program started in 2021 with students from North Dakota and has since expanded to include students in Nebraska, New Mexico, Utah, Idaho and California.
“This is a program John Deere has offered to dealers in areas where John Deere TECH programs are too far away for reasonable travel, or to help non-traditional students earn a degree and advance their careers,” Selvidge said.
Through the courses offered during the two-year program, students earn 60 credit hours with ASU-Beebe toward their Associate of Applied Science Degree in Agriculture Equipment Technology. They also earn credits with John Deere University, an advantage for students when they graduate.
Selvidge said that while the John Deere program can be rigorous for students, it is also incredibly rewarding.
“Our program teaches students a technical trade that can help them go directly into the workforce,” Selvidge said. “Students learn a skill, get a degree and are able to build those relationships with farmers through their dealerships.”
Moreover, Selvidge said he is excited about the opportunities earning this award presents, “This brings recognition among the other John Deere TECH schools and more dealerships who are willing to sponsor students for our program. Winning the Platinum John Deere College of Tomorrow award reflects more prestige.”
The ASU-Beebe John Deere Agriculture Equipment Technology program is one of 19 John Deere tech programs in the nation and is designed to advance the skill level of John Deere service technicians and prepare them to excel in today's high-tech, fast-paced field of agricultural technology. John Deere ag tech graduates make an average of $45,000 to $60,000 a year, plus bonuses and commissions.
For more information on the John Deere ag tech program or other ASU-Beebe programs offered, call (501) 882-8860, or view the ASU-Beebe website at www.asub.edu.
Pictured receiving the College of Tomorrow award from John Deere service development manager David Bostic (left) is Jake Selvidge, director of John Deere Agriculture Equipment Technology at ASU-Beebe and Tony DiFlorio, instructor of John Deere ag tech. (Not pictured is Tom Hillman, instructor of John Deere ag tech).
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