New AGCO training hub prepares future farm technicians

Future farmers - AGCO opens technician training center

AGCO Corporationrecently celebrated the opening of its new AGCO Technician Training Center at Parkland College in Champaign, Illinois.

This state-of-the-art 22,000 square-foot facility will support the college’s Agricultural Service Technician Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree program, which focuses on AGCO’s machinery and technologies. The center was made possible by a $5 million donation from AGCO, aiming to address the growing shortage of skilled technicians in the agriculture sector.

The AGCO AAS program is an official apprenticeship registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, offering students a blend of classroom instruction, paid on-the-job training, and nationally recognized credentials.

The new facility includes advanced classroom technology, 18,000 square feet of shop space with specialized tools, and access to the latest AGCO equipment, including products from its Fendt®, Massey Ferguson®, and PTx™ brands. The center will also host training events for AGCO’s dealer network, giving students the opportunity to learn alongside experienced industry technicians.

In line with its Farmer First strategy and FarmerCore™ initiative, AGCO is committed to preparing a highly trained workforce that can meet the increasing demands of modern agriculture. The company’s North American dealer network actively sponsors students through internships, mentorships, and post-graduate employment opportunities.

“Today’s equipment and precision ag technologies require highly skilled technicians to keep our farmers farming,” said Eric Hansotia, AGCO’s Chairman, President, and CEO. “This facility demonstrates AGCO’s commitment to future technicians, farmers and dealers, ensuring reliable operations and successful farming across the region.”

Photo Credit: agco