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Request InformationGPS/GIS Information Systems Technology Program
Global Positioning Systems and Geographic Information Systems (GPS/GIS) technologies combine a passion for agriculture and an aptitude for technology. High-tech GPS equipment isn’t just for military strategies and space exploration. Individual farmers and agronomy centers now use aerial and satellite imagery to improve agricultural yields while minimizing inputs. Be the techie who can help others make data-driven, agricultural decisions.
Program delivery
- Willmar campus
- Fall and spring starts
Skills you will learn
- Aerial and satellite imagery
- Yield correlation maps
- GPS receivers
- Application rate maps
- Field scouting techniques
- Precision farming
- Remote sensing and image analysis
- Electronics troubleshooting
- Corn and soybean production
- Integrated pest management
- Soils and fertility management
Choose Ridgewater
Agricultural efficiency and productivity are at the heart of Ridgewater’s Global Positioning Systems/Geographic Information Systems Technology program. Our program is the third oldest GPS/GIS program in the U.S, and also part of Minnesota’s largest two-year Agriculture department which received national recognition in 2017. If you’re looking for excellence in agricultural education and a career that’s in high demand, set your phone GPS for Ridgewater College, Willmar Campus.
Program Distinctions
2017 Nationally recognized Outstanding Postsecondary/Adult Agriculture Education program
Certifications available: Commercial Driver’s License, OSHA Forklift, OSHA 10-hours, Commercial or Private Applicator, FAA Part 107 Drone
Program attributes that help students thrive
- Cutting-edge technology in remote sensing and image analysis
- Two paid internships to apply skills and gain experience and confidence
- 100% job placement
- School farm and shop for hands-on training
- Strong local industry partnerships for field trips and networking
- Very active Professional Agricultural Students (PAS) club
Combine technology know-how with agronomy and general agriculture knowledge for a challenging career helping others succeed in their ag careers as well!
Salary and Job Outlook GPS/GIS Technology
| Potential Careers for Graduates | Entry Level Annual Wage 2015 | Median Annual Wage 2015 | Projected Growth Rate 2012-2022 | Projected Regional Job Openings 2012-2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Equipment Operators | $30,451 | $45,760 | 7% | 70 |
| Farmworkers & Laborers, Crop, Nursery, and Greenhouse | $20,800 | $27,102 | -19% | 170 |
| Agricultural & Food Science Technicians | $34,528 | $44,158 | 9% | 60 |
| Soil & Plant Scientists | $52,686 | $80,683 | 6% | 10 |
Gainful Employment Reports
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