John Deere Construction & Forestry Technician Program Adds College in North Dakota

MOLINE, Ill. (Sept. 12, 2013) — In partnership with RDO Equipment Co., John Deere is expanding its C&F Tech initiative to include North Dakota State College of Science in Wahpeton, N.D. The John Deere dealer technician job training program is a two-year associate’s degree that enables students to troubleshoot, service, repair and rebuild diesel equipment used by customers nationwide.

“The world’s growing population calls for an even greater need of infrastructure equipment and those who can keep them running,” said Jeff Kraft, division manager at John Deere Construction & Forestry. “This new college will provide the knowledge and skills needed for a successful and rewarding career at a John Deere dealership and help resolve technician shortages.”

The C&F Tech program is a partnership between John Deere, its dealers and select community colleges across the country. Students are sponsored by Deere dealers to attend a participating college. These students are able to apply knowledge developed through dealership work experience, along with the college curriculum, and graduate with a two-year AAS degree in Diesel Technology or equivalent.

“Qualified technicians are integral in keeping our customers’ equipment up and running,” said Jean Zimmerman, executive vice president organizational development at RDO Equipment Co. “We invest in technicians because they are the best in the industry, and we’re excited to work closely with NDSCS to provide successful graduates the opportunity to work at a John Deere dealership.”

 The C&F Tech Initiative expands the John Deere commitment at NDSCS, building on the success of the existing John Deere Ag & Turf Technician program.

“The expansion of our private-public partnership with John Deere and RDO fills a critical need, especially in this region,” said NDSCS President John Richman.  ”And the benefit to our students is more than the access to the most up-to-date technology and equipment. Ultimately, this partnership launches very successful careers with RDO for our students.”