SWTC Agricultural Power and Equipment Technician and Precision Agronomy programs receive a grant

FENNIMORE, WIS. (WRCO / WRCE) The Southwest Wisconsin Technical College Agricultural Power and Equipment Technician and Precision Agronomy programs were awarded one of two CNH Top Tech Grants, up to $50,000. This is a recognition that shows the college’s commitment to developing the next generation of skilled service technicians and agronomy professionals. The grant recognizes Southwest Tech among an elite group of institutions partnering with CNH to strengthen technical education and support the agricultural and agronomy industries.

The CNH Top Tech Program is an industry-driven initiative created by CNH Industrial, the global manufacturer behind brands such as Case IH, Case Construction, New Holland Agriculture, and New Holland Construction. The program is designed to:

• Identify and support high-potential technical college programs that prepare students for careers as service technicians or precision agronomy positions.

• Provide equipment, training materials, and financial resources to enhance hands-on learning.

• Connect students directly with CNH dealerships, helping them move into high-demand and rewarding careers.

• Top Tech partner schools receive access to CNH training modules, diagnostic tools, updated curriculum materials, and opportunities for student engagement with local dealerships.

The grant will help Sothwest Tech stay current with industry standards and deliver workforce-ready graduates. Receiving the CNH Top Tech Grant is a significant milestone for Southwest Tech’s Agricultural Power and Equipment Technician and Precision Agronomy programs. Southwest Tech students just finished harvest on the new Agriculture Innovation Farm (AIF). The AIF is 80 acres of crop ground that complements the 18 acres of plot ground they already run. The funding will support program equipment updates, and equipment purchases needed to operate the AIF crop ground. The funds will also be used to enhance training opportunities in the classroom with trainers and software that put students on the cutting edge of diagnostics, hydraulics, electronics, and precision technology.

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