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Practical Skills for Local Impact

Jerad Dubbelde Programs of study: Agriculture Service Technology Hometown: Sioux Center, Iowa

Dordt University’s Agriculture Service Technology (AST) program is in its second year, and students like Jerad Dubbelde are turning their passion for agriculture into practical skills that will serve the agriculture industry in local communities.

Originally from Sioux Center, Dubbelde was initially drawn to Dordt’s local, practical program as a way to enter the field of agriculture. “I have always wanted to do something in the agricultural field,” he says. “I wanted to do something that was work with my hands and that directly helped the local agriculture.”

When he learned about Dordt’s AST program, he signed up right away.

Dubbelde has valued the program’s hands-on approach to learning and the camaraderie of learning alongside classmates. “My favorite course so far is the engines class—tearing apart an engine and figuring out how to put it back together was a really great experience,” says Dubbelde. “I’ve also enjoyed working with my classmates in the labs. We all get along and have a lot of fun while learning together.”

Upon completing the program, students have the opportunity to step directly into agriculture technology roles at AgriVision Equipment Group/Prairieland Partners (AVE/PLP), equipped with valuable technical skills and real-world experience. Gaining firsthand experience working in the agriculture technology field has given Dubbelde both a deeper understanding of the work and practical skills to use in the field. “When I compared to where I was in my internship with the local John Deere dealership to where I am now after taking the AST classes at Dordt, it's a night and day difference,” he says. “I'm more efficient at my job and have a better understanding of my work.”

While many of the friendships and memories Dubbelde will carry with him from his time at Dordt stem from the AST program, he also notes that his time on campus has had a profound impact on his faith. “The most memorable part for me has been the friends I’ve made on campus,” reflects Dubbelde. “They’ve been open to talking about God on a deeper level and have helped me stay motivated in my studies.

“My faith has also grown at Dordt because I’m exposed to the Lord more than I used to be, which has naturally helped me grow spiritually.”