College of Western Idaho (CWI) Heavy Equipment Technician Program students are furthering their industry knowledge and skills thanks to a new tractor generously donated by the program’s partner, Agri-Service.
Agri-Service, one of the largest dealerships of agriculture machinery in North America, donated a Massey Ferguson 7626 tractor. This state-of-the-art tractor will empower students pursuing careers in agricultural equipment maintenance. Its modern features and size make it a valuable addition to the program's hands-on learning experiences, enhancing lab activities and allowing students to master new procedures, including the intricate processes of splitting a tractor and learning the standardized communication protocol used in agriculture and forestry machinery, ISOBUS.
“I am grateful beyond words to Agri-Service for this donation,” said Diesel Technology Department Chair, George Turner. “They are an excellent company that has shown a commitment to improving and supporting the Heavy Equipment Technician Program.”
Agri-Service's commitment to the program extends beyond this donation. The dealership has been a longstanding partner, actively participating in the College's Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), contributing equipment, tools, and resources, and consistently hiring program graduates. Their involvement also extends to providing curriculum feedback and playing a vital role in the redesign of the program's curriculum as it transitioned to its current 19-month model.
The Heavy Equipment Technician Program and Agri-Service partnership create opportunities for students to learn job-ready skills. CWI’s commitment to accessibility and continued reinvestments into its program, along with obtaining Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) certification, makes the College an ideal partner for Agri-Service and ensures they provide industry-leading education.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for Heavy Equipment Technicians is rapidly growing, with about 21,100 job openings projected each year over the decade, making it one of the fastest-growing occupations.
“Agri-Service is honored to be able to partner with CWI to support career technical education,” said the President of Agri-Service, Kevin Vivian. “Our donation of this Massey Ferguson tractor will help advance training opportunities for future Equipment Technicians, giving them access to the latest in machine technology. The Agricultural and Heavy Equipment industries need more Technicians than there are available in the workforce, so we are proud to support CWI’s successful program. Through industry, educational institutions, and government partnerships we prepare these students for rewarding opportunities.”
Source : cwi.edu