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If you’d like to learn more about the Agricultural Equipment Technology program, we’d love to talk with you.
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Program Overview
The work: varied, in-demand, lucrative
You: curious, hardworking, willing to learn
In our two-year associate degree, you’ll get practical, hands-on learning in the service and repair of tractors, combines, planting and harvesting equipment, and more.
Associate Degree Goals
In addition to developing your technical skills, the associate degree program will prepare you for the business aspects of agricultural technology. Not only will you be qualified for entry-level service positions, but you will be prepared for a range of professional positions. Leadership, management and sales roles will expand opportunities for career and salary advancement.
Real-world, Hands-on Learning
Enjoy hands-on learning in our state-of-the-art shop environment with instruction from our award-winning faculty.
The associate degree curriculum is designed with input from local employers to ensure the courses get you the real-world skills you need to be successful in the industry.
Attend classes full time at the Madison College Truax campus.
Agricultural Equipment Technology | Year 1
In your first year, you’ll develop critical diagnostic and troubleshooting skills and technical knowledge in:
- diesel engine systems
- drive trains
- hydraulics
- electrical systems
- global positioning systems (GPS)
- air conditioning
- materials handling equipment
- harvesting equipment
Bonus: You'll automatically earn the Agriculture Equipment Service Technician technical diploma after completing the first-year curriculum!
Summer Internship
Apply your first-year technical skills at a local dealership or co-op, getting on-the-job experience servicing and repairing farm implements. You’ll gain valuable exposure to how a service department operates while also building your resume and professional network.
Agricultural Equipment Technology | Year 2
You’ll expand ag equipment knowledge in your second year by gaining advanced skills in hydraulics, engines and powertrain. You’ll also dive deeper into electronics and high-tech precision farming (GPS) systems.
Explore Agricultural Equipment Programs
Learn more about the agricultural equipment profession and why students choose Madison College for career training.
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Program Courses
Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
First Semester10-070-100Introduction to Agricultural Equipment
Includes a discussion of the job requirements, skills needed, career options and employment opportunities in agricultural equipment repair and maintenance. Introduces basic mechanics, shop procedures, safety practices, tools and using service resources.2 credits10-070-105Electricity 1
This class begins with a discussion of the laws of electricity as they relate to the operation of the charging, starting and lighting systems. Diagnostic testing and troubleshooting will be demonstrated on alternators, starters and lighting systems. Methods of repair will be demonstrated where methods are currently used at the dealerships.3 credits10-070-205Electricity 2
This class builds on proficiency with electrical/electronic test equipment in the testing of Ag equipment electrical systems. Testing and troubleshooting will be demonstrated on starting, charging and accessory systems. Relays, analog sensors, Hall Effect sensors, and other electrical component function, operation, and testing will be demonstrated.3 credits10-070-115Planting and Seeding
This course provides instruction in the theory of operation, adjustment and service of planting equipment. Students will learn the operation and service of corn planters and grain drills. Emphasis is given to how the corn planter seed meters work and how the attachments operate. In addition, the course also provides information on the theory, operation, adjustment and service of planting and seeding equipment.3 credits10-070-135Basic Fuel Systems
This course covers the theory of operation, construction and service of diesel engine mechanical fuel systems. Timing and adjustments and diagnostics of fuel systems along with air intake and exhaust systems including turbo chargers will also be covered.2 credits10-070-191Basic Engine Repair
Study in this course will allow the student to develop a basic knowledge of combustion engine design and operation with the major emphasis on diesel engines. Experience in the course will provide the student with the skills and knowledge needed to diagnose, overhaul, maintain, adjust and repair engines found in agricultural machines and equipment.3 credits10-412-110Metalworking for Heavy-Duty Applications
This course focuses on welding and metal cutting safety as it applies to heavy-duty applications. Students will learn to setup and use welding and cutting equipment to weld and cut a variety of types and thicknesses of materials commonly used in heavy-duty applications. Skill development emphasis will be placed on cutting metal with oxy-fuel and plasma arc methods. Welding techniques and procedures for SMAW and GMAW will also be included. In addition, students will have the opportunity to demonstrate layout procedures and complete fabrication projects.2 creditsSecond Semester10-070-145Basic Powertrain
The course covers the operation, power flow, diagnosis and servicing of collar shift, synchronized transmissions, drive axles, and differentials. The class also discusses the operation and service of wet and dry clutches, power take off (PTO) drives and mechanical front wheel drives.3 credits10-070-193Mobile Heating & Air Conditioning
This course covers the theory of operation, service and testing of air conditioning units used to cool and heat the operator's cab. Lab work consists of leak detecting, evacuation, charging component installations, electrical circuits and troubleshooting of systems. Air conditioning service certification tests are also given to students enrolled in this course.2 credits10-070-215Crop Harvesting
This course provides instruction in the theory of operation and service of combines, headers, hay & forage equipment including balers, mower conditioners and forest harvesters. Students will learn how the equipment processes the crop, the basic components, means of service, repair and adjustments of the machines.3 credits10-070-125Hydraulics 1
This course introduces the student to the hydraulic systems found on agricultural equipment. Demonstrate the theory of open and closed hydraulic systems. The component configuration and operational characteristics of this equipment will be introduced. Students will service and rebuild the pump, control valves and other components of the hydraulic system. Students will follow the technical manual diagnostic procedures to troubleshoot hydraulic system problems.3 credits10-070-225Hydraulics 2
This course component configuration and operational characteristics of this equipment will be introduced. Students will service and rebuild the pump, control valves and other components of the hydraulic system. Students will follow the technical manual diagnostic procedures to troubleshoot hydraulic system problems.3 credits10-801-195Written Communication
Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.3 creditsThird/Summer Session10-070-187Occupational Experience 1 - Agricultural Equipment Technology Program
Students receive on-the-job experience in the areas of implement repair and service. Areas covered include, but are not limited to, tillage, planting and hay harvesting machines. Students also will be exposed to the operation and function of the dealership service department. Prerequisite: second-semester standing.2 creditsFourth Semester10-070-250Precision Farming (GPS)
This course will introduce students to GPS and how it works with agricultural machinery functionality. Basic GPS equipment guidance systems set-up, operation and diagnostics will be utilized. Types of GPS signals and their applications currently used on agricultural equipment will be covered. Set-up and operations of precision farming applications.3 credits10-070-305Electronics
This course will teach student to diagnosis type and operation temperature, pressure and speed sensors. Students will be introduced to the computer machine communication systems. Students will be shown the procedure for recalling trouble codes and diagnostic of the code(s).3 credits10-070-325Hydraulics 3
This course provides instruction on the component configuration and operational characteristics of these tractors will be introduced. Students will service and rebuild the axial piston pumps, SCV’s and other components of the hydraulic system. Students will follow the technical manual diagnostic procedures to check out and troubleshoot the hydraulic system.3 credits10-801-196Oral/Interpersonal Communication
Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.3 credits10-804-134Mathematical Reasoning
Making decisions about fiscal, environmental, and health issues requires using mathematical reasoning to solve complex problems. This course explores numerical and algebraic relationships, graphical data displays, statistical measures, proportional and algebraic reasoning, translating contexts to mathematical models, and solving using linear, exponential and other mathematic models. This course may be used as the first of a two-part sequence that ends with Quantitative Reasoning as the capstone general education math requirement.3 creditsFifth Semester10-070-235Advanced Fuel Systems/Emissions
This course covers the theory of operation, construction and service of diesel engine fuel systems. Also reviewed are diesel engine compression, ignition, theory combustion, chamber design and procedures for installing, timing of fuel quantity for proper combustion. Electronic fuel delivery will be discussed as it relates to engine operation.2 credits10-070-245Advanced Powertrain
The course covers the operation, power flow, diagnosis and servicing of partial and full power shift transmissions, IVT/CVT transmission.3 credits10-070-291Advanced Engines
Study in this course will allow the student to develop a basic knowledge of combustion engine design and operation with the major emphasis on diesel engines. Experience in the course will provide the student with the skills and knowledge needed to diagnose, overhaul, maintain, adjust and repair engines found in agricultural machines and equipment.3 credits10-809-195Economics
This course is designed to give an overview of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and international economics. Concepts include scarcity, resources, alternative economic systems, growth, supply and demand, monetary and fiscal policy, inflation, unemployment and global economic issues.3 credits10-809-199Psychology Of Human Relations
This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.3 credits -
How to Apply
Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!
If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.
Apply Now – Secure Your Spot!
This program has a limited number of seats available. We encourage early applications to secure your spot, but the program has not historically reached full capacity. It shares this capacity with other programs that have similar curriculum.
Application Dates
Fall 2026
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is August 31, 2026
Fall 2027
- Application available on October 15, 2026
- Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027
Admission Requirements
All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.
1. Admission Application
The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.
2. Education Completion
Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:
- High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
- GED/HSED completion
- College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
- Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
- At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
- The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
- Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
- Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript
All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.
Additional Notes
Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a program does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the program.
Questions?
Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
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After You Apply
This program uses a waiting list to manage program admission due to capacity limitations and high program demand. This means there are typically more applicants than there are open seats in the program.
A waiting list helps us manage applications in a way that is fair and transparent.
- Students on the waiting list receive priority in future terms based on the date they complete all application requirements.
- Priority does not guarantee a spot in the program.
- You may remain on the waiting list if you continue to follow the steps to notify Madison College of your continued interest.
Learn more about waiting lists and Admission to Programs with Limited Capacity.
Questions?
Contact Enrollment Services at enrollmentservices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
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Transfer Opportunities
UW System Schools
The terms of the B.S in Leadership & Org Studies agreement are limited to students who complete selective A.A.S or A.A.A. degrees and are admitted to the Organizational Studies emphasis at UW-Oshkosh. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higherWisconsin Private Schools
Student who earn an Associate Degree from Madison College can transfer a minimum of 60 credits and a maximum of 72 credits to Lakeland College to be applied to the requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences degree.Completion of an A.A.S. Degree at Madison College after 2018, and meeting admission requirements for the Rader School of Business (RSOB) at the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) can earn a B.B.A degree in Technical Sales at MSOE.Out-of-State Schools
Franklin University will guarantee acceptance of Madison College graduates with an AA, AS, or AAS. Madison College graduates will have junior standing at Franklin University and may transfer up to 94 additional credits toward their baccalaureate degree. -
Career Outcomes
Agriculture Equipment Technology Program Outcomes
When you graduate from Madison College with your Agriculture Equipment Technology associate degree, you’ll be prepared to:
- Follow and practice safety procedures in the workplace.
- Use and understand the tools that allow you to diagnose and repair problems accurately and efficiently.
- Diagnose and repair various types of components, equipment, and machines, such as:
- electrical systems
- digital data systems
- hydraulic systems
- internal combustion engines
- power trains/transmissions
- air conditioning systems.
- Set up and maintain components, systems and equipment to their original level of performance.
- Demonstrate professional abilities, including:
- self-motivation
- self-awareness
- teamwork
- flexibility
- stress management
- respect for coworkers, supervisors and clients.
- Write and speak clearly and professionally about mechanical and service issues to customers, coworkers and supervisors.
- Recognize basic business operations and policies that contribute to effective service and profitability.
Agriculture Equipment Technology Career Outcomes
Technical Diploma Graduates
Upon finishing the first year of the program, you’ll be prepared for entry-level technician positions servicing and repairing agricultural equipment and machinery, including:
- Ag Dealership Parts Person
- Ag Dealership Service Technician
- Ag Dealership Service Writer
- Field Service Technician
- Harvesting Operator/Technician
Associate Degree Graduates
Completing the two-year associate degree will get you ready for a wider range of professional positions, including:
- Service Technician
- Field Service Technician
- Lead Technician
- Shop Foreman
- Service Writer Coordinator
- Customer Support Representative
- Agricultural Equipment Sales
- Consumer Products Sales
- Service Manager
Future Career Prospects
With additional education and/or work experience, you may find employment as:
- Ag Company Service Representative
- Ag Company Sales Representative
- Dealership Sales Manager
- Dealership Manager
- Dealership Owner/Operator
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Graduate Summary
Graduate Report Summary Overview
2023 2024 2025 Number of Program Graduates 5 2 9 Number of Surveys Sent 5 2 9 Number of Surveys Returned 1 1 7 Percent of Surveys Returned Available for Employment 1 1 7 Percent Available for Employment 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Not in Labor Market Percent Not in Labor Market 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Available for Employment
2023 2024 2025 Graduates Employed 1 1 7 Percent of Graduates Employed 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Employed in Related Occupation 1 1 7 Percent Employed in Related Occupation 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Employed in Unrelated Occupation 0 0 0 Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Employed - No Response 0 0 0 Percent Employed - No Response 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Seeking Employment 0 0 0 Percent Seeking Employment 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Reaction To Training at Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4) 3 3 3.9 Number of Satisfaction Responses 1 1 7 Very Satisfied (4) 0 0 6 Percent Very Satisfied 0.0% 0.0% 85.7% Satisfied (3) 1 1 1 Percent Satisfied 100.0% 100.0% 14.3% Unsatisfied (2) 0 0 0 Percent Unsatisfied 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Very Unsatisfied (1) Percent Very Unsatisfied 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Primary Reason for Attending Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Number of Primary Reason Responses 1 1 7 Preparation for Getting a Job 0 0 2 Percent Preparation for Getting a Job 0.0% 0.0% 28.6% Career Change 0 0 0 Percent Career Change 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Improvement of Existing Skills 0 1 5 Percent Improvement of Existing Skills 0.0% 100.0% 71.4% Preparation for Further Education 0 0 0 Percent Preparation for Further Education 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Personal Interest 1 0 0 Percent Personal Interest 100.0% 0.0% 0.0% Other 0 0 0 Percent Other 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% When Employment was Obtained
2023 2024 2025 Number of When Employment Obtained Responses 1 1 7 Before Enrollment 0 0 4 Percent Before Enrollment 0.0% 0.0% 57.1% While Attending the College 1 0 1 Percent While Attending the College 100.0% 0.0% 14.3% After Training at the College 0 1 2 Percent After Training at the College 0.0% 100.0% 28.6% Location of Employment (related and unrelated)
2023 2024 2025 Number of Employment Location Responses 1 1 7 In College District 1 0 3 Percent In College District 100.0% 0.0% 42.9% In Wisconsin, Not in District 0 1 3 Percent of In Wisconsin 0.0% 100.0% 42.9% Outside of Wisconsin 0 0 0 Percent Outside Wisconsin 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Employer Location Unknown 0 0 1 Percent Location Unknown 0.0% 0.0% 14.3% Salary Trend 2023 2024 2025 Full Time Employment (Related Job) Full Time Salary Count 1 1 5 Average Monthly Wage $3,308 $3,784 $4,627 Average Hourly Wage $19.23 $22.00 $26.90 Average Work Hours per Week 50.0 50.0 49.2 Part Time Employment (Related Job) Part Time Salary Count Average Hourly Wage Average Work Hours per Week -
Graduate Employers
Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025 Employer(s) Job Title City* State** Positions Ballweg Implement Company Ag-Technician Waupun Dane County Highway Dept Mechanic Debell Dairy Farm Mechanic Kenosha Helena Agri-Enterprises Mechanic Edgerton Mid-State Equipment Service Technician Columbus Roden Echo Valley Farm Worker West Bend * - Only cities outside of Madison will display.
** - Only states outside of Wisconsin will display.
*** - If you have a position to post, please contact Career and Employment Services at jobpostings@madisoncollege.edu
