Program News
John Deere TECH Program Earns Highest Honor
RALEIGH, N.C. (October 27, 2022) – Wake Tech’s John Deere TECH agricultural systems program has been recognized as one of the best in the world. The program has earned the distinction of platinum status from Deere & Co. based on Wake Tech's facilities, instructors, student educational processes and interaction with dealership partners. Wake Tech is one of only three such programs in North America that achieved platinum status.
"We're honored to receive this important recognition from John Deere," said Program Director and Professor Paige Kearns. "I'd like to thank our faculty members for their dedication and our Wake Tech leadership for their continual support and backing of all our heavy equipment programs."
The John Deere TECH partnership allows students interested in pursuing an associate degree in Agricultural Systems Technology at Wake Tech to partner with John Deere agriculture and turf equipment dealers for a career as a John Deere technician trained in all John Deere systems. Thirty-three students from across the eastern United States are currently enrolled. All students are sponsored by a dealer.
Wake Tech is one of 21 colleges in North America that offers a John Deere TECH program.
"The John Deere TECH program is one of Wake Tech's flagships," said Wake Tech President Dr. Scott Ralls. "It provides a unique opportunity for students to get specialized training from an industry leader known for excellence. We've always been proud of this program and are honored to receive this distinction."
Wake Tech's Agricultural Systems Technology curriculum addresses the full range of technological advances in agricultural mechanization, focusing on both John Deere's Agricultural and Turf Equipment product lines. Students learn about diesel engine systems, powertrains, hydraulics and machine setup and adjustment, as well as high-tech GPS known as Precision Ag Telematics™, electronics, schematics and diagnostics computers. Students also gain practical experience and expertise working with the computer-assisted resource materials used throughout the John Deere service network, such as Service ADVISOR™ and Parts Advisor™. The program also emphasizes communication skills and other non-core disciplines essential to a successful career in ag service.
Students utilize John Deere equipment, training components and computer diagnostic tools to understand what makes equipment run. This program provides students with the instructional knowledge needed, as well as the hands-on knowledge and skills to be successful in this career. Students are eligible for jobs, tool sets and tuition and textbook reimbursement at their sponsoring dealer.
To enroll in the program, students can contact their local John Deere dealership or email Kearns at [email protected].
