Big Bend loads up new ag mechanics certification
Farming and hauling equipment are expensive and take a lot of expertise to maintain. A new certification process through Big Bend Community College aims to ensure sufficient people in the local workforce have the skills to maintain and repair that equipment.
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/BBCC
MOSES LAKE – Big Bend Community College announced the establishment of a new Agricultural Mechanics certification program, according to an announcement from the college.
“The launch of the Agricultural Mechanics certificate program is a direct response to the growing demand for skilled workers in our region’s ag industry,” said BBCC Dean of Workforce Education Michelle Morley via the announcement.
The 64-credit program is set up for students wanting to gain essential skills for a career in agricultural mechanics, a high-demand career in and around Grant County, according to the college’s announcement. It includes technical training to help students learn mechanical, welding, electrical and hydraulic skills, among others. Students also gain experience operating the equipment they’ll work on, from tractors and hay bailers to forklifts. A Forklift Operator Certificate is included in the certification’s offerings, according to the announcement.
BBCC Vice President of Learning and Student Success Bryce Humpherys said the program came about after area employers expressed interest in having more people available with the skills to work on tractors and farm equipment.
“This was developed based on feedback we’ve received from employers expressing an interest in hiring individuals with skills to work on a variety of farm equipment, including diesel-powered engines, and so, recognizing that need, we worked on putting the program together,” Humpherys said.
Faculty and staff were able to identify people suitable for teaching the coursework with the idea that the ag mechanic certification would be beneficial to the local economy, he said. Aerotech and green technologies are present in the Columbia Basin, but agriculture is still the leading industry regionally.
“Having skilled workers who can keep the equipment running – all of the different types of equipment farms are using – is beneficial for employers and for the local economy,” Humpherys said.
Deadlines for fall registration are already past, but Humpherys said there’s still time for people to apply and get enrolled in the winter classes set to start a bit later this year.
Anyone interested in the program can email [email protected], according to the college’s announcement.
The hope for the program in the long run is to continue to bolster the local economy and provide opportunities that cater to the Basin’s strengths, something BBCC officials have regularly expressed as a focus for the college’s programming.
“This program equips students with hands-on experience and technical skills that are essential to supporting the evolving needs of local employers. We’re excited to offer a pathway that strengthens our agricultural community and leads to meaningful careers,” Morley said in the announcement.