Fueling the Future: Scottsbluff High School Students Go Behind the Scenes at John Deere
How does a trip to Waterloo inspire the next generation of technicians?
Getting out of the classroom and into the "heart of the iron" is how we help students realize that being a diesel tech is about much more than just turning wrenches. Five dedicated students from the SHS Diesel Tech program earned a trip to the John Deere Engine Works and the Tractor Cab & Assembly Operations.
By touring these massive facilities, students saw exactly how a tractor moves from a raw frame to a high-tech machine ready for the field. Our CEO, Owen Palm, wanted these students to witness the scale of innovation and the diverse career paths that open up when you master John Deere technology.
Why is precision agriculture education vital for today’s students?
During the final unit of the semester, our own Enterprise Training Manager, Darrell Nickal, led the instruction on the "Why" behind precision agriculture. With the world's population climbing and farmable acres shrinking, we have to find ways to do more with less.
Precision Ag and AutoTrac™ systems are the tools that make this possible. Our technicians focus on teaching students how this technology solves real-world problems:
- Adverse Condition Operation: Running accurately even when visibility is low.
- Extended Hours: Reducing operator fatigue so farmers can maximize tight planting and harvest windows.
- Input Efficiency: Ensuring precise seed and fertilizer placement to reduce waste and increase total yield.
Seeing the backbone of the industry in action
The tours in Waterloo are led by retired John Deere employees—folks who have the history of the "Leaping Deer" in their DNA. For students like Josh Jimenez, seeing the assembly process up close helped connect the dots between the components they study in class and the final product that supports our local food supply.
Derek Deaver, the SHS internship coordinator, noted that this experience created a massive awareness of the career opportunities waiting for these students. It’s a "win" for the students and a "win" for the future of our local agricultural community.
How can students jumpstart a debt-free career in Ag Tech?
If you have a student who is "geared up" for a career in mechanics, we offer a proven path to success that avoids the burden of traditional student loans. The John Deere Ag Tech program is a specialized alliance that bridges the gap between high school and a professional career.
Benefits of the Ag Tech program include:
- Earn an Associate Degree: Graduate with an Associate of Applied Science from a partner 2-year college.
- Hands-On Experience: Complete a cooperative work experience right here at a 21st Century Equipment dealership.
- Guaranteed Career Path: We invest in our students because we want them to become the factory-trained experts our customers rely on.
Ready to join the team?
We are always looking for the next generation of experts to join "The Backyard." If you’re interested in learning more about the Diesel Tech program or the Ag Tech scholarship opportunities, we’d love to chat.
Common Questions About the John Deere Diesel Tech Program (FAQ)
What schools participate in the Diesel Tech career pathway? We currently partner closely with Scottsbluff High School (SHS) for their Diesel Tech program, providing instruction, parts, and real-world experiences like the Waterloo factory tour.
What is the John Deere Ag Tech program? It is a specialized two-year program where students attend college while also working at a dealership. It’s designed to create "Master Technicians" who are experts in John Deere’s specific engines, hydraulics, and precision systems.
Is there financial support available for students? Yes! 21st Century Equipment provides scholarship opportunities and tool incentives for students accepted into the Ag Tech program to help ensure they start their careers on solid financial footing.
Why does 21st Century Equipment invest in high school programs? We’ve been a trusted dealer for a long time, and we know that the future of agriculture depends on skilled technicians. By supporting young people now, we ensure our customers will always have the best support in the field for years to come.
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