Power the Future of Farming
Work on the machines that drive agriculture.
Go from curious to career-ready in precision agriculture and diesel technology with Owens’ John Deere Tech, AAS. As one of only 21 colleges worldwide offering this exclusive program, Owens Community College combines classroom theory, hands-on training, and real-world field experience to build the skills needed to keep today’s advanced John Deere equipment running at peak performance.
You’ll become an expert in the technology that powers John Deere equipment. Master the inner workings of agricultural and turf machinery and prepare for employment at a John Deere dealership.
Small Classes. Expert Guidance.
At Owens, you have a team of dedicated, experienced professionals guiding you. In turn, your faculty will be supported by an Advisory Committee of local professionals.
Our instructors are experts who take pride in your success. Combined with our small class sizes, you’ll get one-on-one mentorship and precise technical feedback tailored to your goals.
Award Type
Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Department
Department of Transportation Technologies
Required Credit Hours
61-62
Real Results
16
Weeks of training—alternating 8 weeks in class, 8 weeks paid internship
1 of 21
Colleges worldwide offering this program—global reputation
97%
Employment rate one year after graduation
From Classroom to John Deere Shop Floor
Over five semesters, you’ll receive a state-of-the-art technical education on the latest John Deere equipment through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on laboratory work and supervised occupational experience at a John Deere dealership.
Your first year dives straight into the core of John Deere systems. You’ll master the fundamentals of hydraulic theory, vehicle electronics, and preventive maintenance while building expertise in the information systems used by John Deere dealerships. Early on, you’ll step into the shop for diesel field experience, applying what you learn on real machines.
As you progress, you’ll tackle complex hydraulic systems, electrical diagnostics and engine fundamentals. Specialized courses focus on combine maintenance and repair, tractor drivelines and advanced driveline systems. You’ll also develop skills in engine performance analysis, air conditioning systems and critical components like seeding and tillage equipment.
This program makes you more than a great technician—it makes you a well-rounded professional. You’ll sharpen your communication skills with courses in English composition and public speaking, and strengthen your problem-solving abilities through applied math and physics. With courses in psychology and management, you’ll be prepared to lead and excel in the workplace.
Program Outcomes
Student will be able to:
- Diagnose and repair John Deere engines.
- Diagnose and repair John Deere suspension and steering systems.
- Diagnose and repair John Deere brake systems.
- Diagnose and repair John Deere electrical/electronic systems.
- Diagnose and repair John Deere Preventive maintenance systems.
- Diagnose and repair John Deere drivelines.
- Diagnose and repair John Deere heating, ventilation and air conditioning.
- Diagnose and repair John Deere fluid power systems.
Sponsorship Requirement
You must be sponsored by an authorized John Deere dealership to be accepted into this program—we can help you find a placement. You’ll rotate between 8 weeks on campus and 8 weeks at your sponsoring dealership. During the internship, you’ll receive hourly wages and pay increases based on performance.
View Dealer Approval Form
Release Forms
Please fill out the photo release forms below to provide permission for student photos to be used in marketing, advertising or on social media.
Career Outcomes
You’ll graduate ready to launch a rewarding career as a technician. Your expertise in diesel engine repair, hydraulics and electronics for modern farm equipment positions you for high-demand roles in operations, maintenance, service, diagnostics, testing and development.
In today’s tech-driven ag industry, skilled technicians like you are essential—and highly sought after.
Explore the employment data to understand trends in our area.
In Their Words
“Looking back, I am amazed at how much I have learned in my time at Owens. The atmosphere was spectacular and my classmates were so supportive.”
Gabe Buchholz, John Deere Tech Program, ’23
Getting Started at Owens
Begin your high-quality education at an affordable price today!
Enrollment is easy—just fill out an online admissions application to get started, then apply to the John Deere Tech Program. We’ll ask you to submit your transcripts for course placement and college credit.
Upon acceptance, schedule a meeting with your admissions advisor to register for classes. Next, attend an on-campus orientation and meet with your student financial services advisor to discuss ways to pay for college.
Contact Us
Joseph Hengeli
Chair, Transportation Technologies
Email
Phone: (567) 661-7142
Heath Weilnau
Program Coordinator & Instructor
Email
Phone: (567) 661-7433
Addee Faulhaber
Corporate Program Coordinator
Email
Phone: (567) 661-7329
Bernard Goedde
Assistant Professor
Email
Phone: (567) 661-7431
Timothy McGaharan
Instructor, John Deere
Email
Phone: (567) 661-7346
Tom McRitchie
Instructor, Transportation Tech
Email
Phone: (567) 661-7308
Accreditation
The John Deere Program is accredited by John Deere University.