Dordt AST Program Graduates First Class of John Deere-Certified Technicians
Dordt University celebrated the inaugural graduating class of its Agriculture Service Technology (AST) program Thursday evening, marking a milestone for a program designed to combine technical training, Christian education, and workforce development.
The AST program, launched through a partnership with AgriVision Equipment, allows students to earn a two-year degree from Dordt while becoming certified as John Deere technicians.
The first graduating class includes nine students. Seven graduates will continue working for AgriVision following graduation, with six remaining in Sioux Center or nearby communities.
Building More Than Careers
Dordt leaders say the program was intentionally designed to address growing workforce shortages in agriculture equipment technology while also providing a faith-based educational experience.
“For us, this is about more than job placement numbers,” explains Eric Tudor, executive director of innovation and strategy at Dordt. “These students helped pioneer something new at Dordt. They demonstrated that technical education and Christian formation belong together. We’re seeing graduates step directly into meaningful careers while also serving the communities where they live and work.”
Students in the AST program complete technical coursework alongside Dordt’s core curriculum while participating in chapel, residence life, and other campus experiences. The program also includes paid internships and hands-on training with agricultural equipment and diagnostic systems.
Focus on Technical Skills and Character
Caleb Meulenberg, instructor of agriculture technology at Dordt, says the program has emphasized both technical excellence and personal development.
“These students have spent the past two years developing not only technical skills, but also character,” Meulenberg says. “One thing we’ve talked about often is what it means to be a Christian technician in the shop environment—someone who works with excellence, treats people well, and reflects Christ in everyday interactions. It’s been rewarding to watch these students grow into that calling.”
During last Thursday’s celebration, Dordt President Dr. Erik Hoekstra highlighted the university’s belief that skilled trades are an important form of service.
“At Dordt, we believe all work matters to God,” Hoekstra said during his remarks. “The trades are not secondary work. They are deeply meaningful forms of service. The people who maintain and repair equipment, solve technical problems, and keep essential industries moving are serving their neighbors and communities every single day.”
Students Reflect on Growth
For graduates like Jerad Dubbelde of Sioux Center, the program offered an opportunity to combine hands-on work with personal and spiritual growth.
“I wanted to do something that was work with my hands and that directly helped local agriculture,” Dubbelde says. “When I compared where I was during my internship to where I am now after taking the AST classes at Dordt, it’s a night and day difference. I’m more efficient at my job and have a better understanding of my work.”
Dubbelde also says the Dordt experience impacted him beyond the classroom and shop floor.
“My faith has grown at Dordt because I’m exposed to the Lord more than I used to be,” he says. “The friendships I’ve built here have helped me stay motivated in my studies and grow spiritually.”
Looking Ahead
University officials say the Agriculture Service Technology program was created in response to growing demand for skilled agricultural technicians and increasing interest from families looking for faith-based technical education opportunities.
The AST program will welcome its third cohort of students this fall.
