The Top Tech ag mechanics program at Barton Community College is off to a good start and will continue to grow, according to Mary Foley, executive director of Workforce Training and Economic Development.
Foley shared an overview of the first year at Tuesday’s BCC Board of Trustees meeting.
“There’s a lot of excitement and word of mouth,” Foley said. Dealerships from Nebraska, Oklahoma and Kansas are visiting with potential students, she added.
The college’s new Agriculture and Transportation Complex on the east side of the campus was dedicated on July 17, 2024. Barton has a longstanding relationship training mechanics for Case New Holland. The Top Tech program created with CNH support is open to anyone.
Six of the first 11 students enrolled completed the certificate program and one student needs to complete his general education courses to receive the certificate. Some students opted to accept employment without finishing the program, she said.
Five students are from Barton County, two from Kansas and three from out-of-state, Foley said, adding she wasn’t able to track where the 11th student is from. One of the students is a female.
Two students are working at KanEquip, one is at Titan Machinery and one is at GTG Peterbilt, all in Great Bend. Another student is at RMAC in Ellinwood and one is at Foley Equipment in Dodge City.
One student enjoyed the precision ag class so much he has shifted from ag mechanics to networking and continues studies in that field.
Foley mentioned several business partnerships that have enhanced the program.
Case New Holland donated an EST scan tool, training transmission and engines, air conditioning components and an older Farmall tractor. Foley said the tractor is a great addition because agriculture mechanics won’t always be working on the newest equipment.
Central Plains Ag donated a hydraulic cylinder.
KanEquip’s contributions led to the Top Tech portion of the new complex being named the KanEquip Learning Center. Foley said it continues to support the program by providing student tool kits at a discounted rate. KanEquip also provided technical expertise to Dustin Thompson, the instructor/coordinator.
The college also depends on an advisory board for expertise on the industry and workforce needs. Foley said that the board has helped the college bring in guest speakers from KanEquip, GTG Peterbilt, Titan Machinery and the Kansas Department of Transportation.
