Career Programs: Agribusiness Science and Technology - Agronomy and Precision Agriculture Technician
Hometown: Rubicon
Current Residence: Rubicon
Age: 19
Attended FVTC: Fall 2017 - Present

Why did you choose the Agribusiness Science and Technology - Agronomy and Precision Agriculture Technician programs?

I came from a small dairy farm and wanted to stay involved in agriculture because, no matter what, we will always need agriculture in our lives. I decided to attend FVTC for the agriculture program not knowing exactly what career path I wanted to pursue. After my first semester, I decided I love precision agriculture and the technology used in the agriculture world.

What are you learning about your career field that you find interesting or rewarding?

I find it interesting how much technology changes in a short period of time in this career field. Between learning the material in class and working with precision agriculture systems at my internship, I find there are always new tools online and hardware in tractors or combines to improve efficiency. One thing that is rewarding in this field is being able to help farmers by educating them on how an investment in a precision system will increase crop yields, reduce costs, and increase profits.

Why did you choose Fox Valley Technical College?

I chose FVTC because of everything it has to offer, specifically in the agriculture department. The classes are hands-on labs with technology used in the real world. FVTC also has many clubs fit for all students and helpful instructors that have been in the field you are studying. They helped me line up an internship for the summer and care about my success.

How did Fox Valley Technical College help you change your life?

FVTC has made a large, positive impact on my life. I have learned so much about my program and have had nothing but great experiences. I’ve also developed friendships and valuable life skills. In my mind, no other technical college I’ve toured can compare with what FVTC has to offer students. FVTC has technology that is used in the classroom daily, such as a John Deere Combine Simulator, to get students familiar with settings and adjustments before using a real combine out in the field. There are also drone simulators and a life-sized cow to practice birthing simulations during class.

What type of job do you expect to find after graduation?

With my degree, I can find multiple jobs in the field related to agribusiness, agronomy or precision agriculture. After I graduate, I plan to get a full-time job working as a Precision Agriculture Specialist for an agriculture company, such as a dealership. This past summer I had an internship doing what I learned in the classroom with precision equipment at Ballweg Implement, a John Deere dealership in Waupun. They liked the knowledge that I brought to the company and wanted me to stay during the school year as well as after I graduate.