03 Nov 2025 ASU-Beebe John Deere Ag Tech Program earns College of Tomorrow Award 

BEEBE — The Arkansas State University-Beebe John Deere Agriculture Equipment Technology program recently won the 2024 College of Tomorrow Gold Award from John Deere, in recognition of the program’s outstanding commitment to training the next generation of John Deere technicians.

The John Deere TECH college partnership program evaluated the ASU-Beebe John Deere ag tech program in several key areas, including facilities, image, processes, and training and awarded the ASU-Beebe program with a gold level award.  

In addition, Jake Selvidge, director of ASU-Beebe’s John Deere agriculture equipment technology program, earned Level 3 Certified John Deere Instructor status with Engine Capstone and John Deere Tech specializations.

“We strive to stay abreast of technology. Students will be Level 2 certified when they graduate with the opportunity to be Level 3 Certified John Deere technicians,” Selvidge said.

ASU-Beebe’s John Deere ag tech program offers on-campus learning and hands-on educational experiences giving students the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in their field. Instructors are core and Level 3 certified John Deere service technicians who receive regular training on advancements in the industry.

ASU-Beebe also has the only virtual John Deere ag tech program in the nation. The virtual program started in 2021 with students from North Dakota and has since expanded to include students in Louisiana, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Mexico, Utah, Idaho and California.

“This is a program John Deere has offered to dealers in areas where John Deere TECH programs are too far away for reasonable travel, or to help non-traditional students earn a degree and advance their careers,” Selvidge said. 

Through the courses offered during the two-year program, students earn 60 credit hours with ASU-Beebe toward their Associate of Applied Science Degree in Agriculture Equipment Technology. They also earn credits with John Deere University, an advantage for students when they graduate.

Selvidge said that while the John Deere program can be rigorous for students, it is also incredibly rewarding. 

“Our program teaches students a technical trade that can help them go directly into the workforce,” Selvidge said. “Students learn a skill, get a degree and are able to build those relationships with farmers through their dealerships.”

The ASU-Beebe John Deere Agriculture Equipment Technology program is one of 19 John Deere tech programs in the nation and is designed to advance the skill level of John Deere service technicians and prepare them to excel in today’s high-tech, fast-paced field of agricultural technology.  

For more information on the John Deere ag tech program or other ASU-Beebe programs offered, call 501.882.8860.