CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Parkland College’s AGCO service-technician program is offering students more than an education—it’s providing a direct pipeline to high-demand careers in agriculture technology. With perks like guaranteed job placement, new tools, and partial tuition reimbursement, students have quickly recognized the program’s value.
Graduates are virtually guaranteed employment, with the opportunity to choose where they work. Students alternate between classroom instruction and hands-on fieldwork, thanks to sponsorships from AGCO dealerships nationwide.
The program’s growth has been fueled by a $5 million investment from AGCO Corporation, which helped fund a state-of-the-art, 18,000-square-foot training center at Parkland. The facility, located off Duncan Road on the west side of campus, features three classrooms, faculty offices, and expansive lab space.
The center officially opens its doors today with a public open house from 1 to 3 p.m. Classes will transition from the Diesel Power Building to the new center in the spring semester, allowing students access to cutting-edge equipment and resources.
The two-year program blends traditional coursework with specialized instruction on AGCO-branded equipment like Fendt and Massey Ferguson. Students also learn broader agricultural concepts, preparing them for careers in dealership shops or field service roles. The program has already seen students with no prior mechanical experience successfully overhaul engines, underscoring its accessibility and comprehensive training. With room for up to 22 students each semester, the program is poised to expand further, ensuring a steady supply of skilled technicians to meet the growing demands of the agricultural industry.
For more information about the AGCO service-technician program, visit parkland.edu/agco or contact a local AGCO dealership.