The Arkansas State University-Beebe John Deere Agriculture Equipment Technology Program has earned the 2024 College of Tomorrow Gold Award, a recognition presented by John Deere to highlight educational excellence among its partner colleges.
The evaluation covered facilities, curriculum quality, dealer collaboration, and training methods—areas in which ASU-Beebe demonstrated top-tier performance. According to Program Director Jake Selvidge, this achievement reflects a long-term commitment to advancing the skills of future service technicians and maintaining high standards in agricultural technology education.
Level 3 Instructor Certification and Real-World Learning
Jake Selvidge himself recently achieved Level 3 Certified John Deere Instructor status, specializing in Engine Capstone and John Deere Tech coursework. Under his leadership, the program ensures that students graduate with Level 2 certification, equipping them with the skills required to enter the workforce immediately.
The curriculum combines classroom theory with extensive hands-on experience, enabling students to work directly with modern John Deere tractors, combines, and diagnostic systems. This focus on practical application prepares graduates to meet the demands of today’s precision agriculture environment.
Virtual Ag Tech Program Expands Nationwide
ASU-Beebe’s virtual John Deere Ag Tech track—the only one of its kind in the United States—has extended opportunities to students across multiple states, including North Dakota, Utah, Nebraska, and California. Introduced in 2021, the program is designed to help students who live far from John Deere TECH campuses or who are already employed in the industry continue their education remotely without compromising quality.
This online initiative mirrors the on-campus experience, featuring live lectures, virtual simulations, and remote diagnostic exercises on John Deere systems—bridging the gap between distance learning and real-world service practice.
About the ASU-Beebe John Deere Program
The ASU-Beebe John Deere Agriculture Equipment Technology Program is one of 19 official John Deere TECH programs in the U.S. It offers a two-year Associate of Applied Science Degree in Agriculture Equipment Technology (60 credit hours), integrating John Deere University coursework for advanced dealer recognition. Graduates gain a direct pathway to employment with John Deere dealers nationwide, supported by ongoing training and certification opportunities through Deere’s global service network.
