Ag Tech Program
Agricultural Technology Workshop
AURPI partners with colleges across the state to offer a unique Agricultural Technology Certificate Program that connects mechatronics training with real-world industries.
Students explore key areas including precision agriculture, UAV (drone) techonology, poultry systems, and forestry operations. Each module emphasizes hands-on experience with the technology that is used in today's agricultural industries.
By building on students' mechatronics background, students learn how their skills translate directly into high-demand careers - supporting innovation, strengthening local industries, and preparing students to step into in-demand roles across Alabama’s poultry and forestry industries.
Program Sections
Poultry Technology
This module provided an overview of the commercial poultry industry, covering key technology components within the feed mill and processing plants.
UAV Technology
This module explored remote sensing and UAV applications in the agriculture and forestry industries with demonstrations and hands-on training.
Forestry Technology
This module offered an introduction to forestry technology, with John Deere equipment simulators, log truck research discussion, a sawmill tour, and UAVs in forestry.
Precision Agriculture
This module covered GPS/GNSS systems, auto-guidance, and precision technologies, including soil sampling, variable-rate applications, harvest technologies, and data management.
Agricultural Technology Workshop
Survey Statistics
We asked the students to take a survey after the workshop,
here's their responses!
100%
thought the workshop matched, exceeded or greatly exceeded their expectations
95%
of students said that the workshop was moderately, very or highly relevant to career goals
58%
had pre-workshop knowledge about mechatronics skills in ag/forestry
83%
were likely or very likely to reccomend the workshop to others (17% neutral)
Future Plans
Our vision is to grow this program beyond Southern Union and the University of West Alabama and bring it to additional community colleges across Alabama with similar 2-year technical degree programs. The goal is to introduce students to high-demand careers in the forestry and poultry industries - opening the door to fulfilling job opportunities and encouraging the next generation to stay and thrive in rural Alabama.
If you're interested in partnering with us to host a workshop at your college, please contact us.
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