Cedar Crest FFA Chapter Receives Precision Agriculture Education Simulator Donation from New Holland Agriculture and Raven Industries
In February, eleven FFA Chapters from across the country were awarded cutting-edge Precision Agriculture education simulators. This donation comes as part of a joint venture between New Holland and Raven Industries to support agricultural education and promote understanding of precision technology among high school students. One of the 11 recipients was Cedar Crest FFA of Lebanon, Pennsylvania. The chapter recently received their display during a special event at local New Holland dealer, Messick’s Equipment.
Under the management of Cedar Crest FFA, and the support of the Cornwall Lebanon School District, the simulator display will serve as a centerpiece in agricultural education. By integrating the technology into the classrooms, they seek to cultivate an interactive learning environment.
«Both the students and teachers are excited to receive this display,» states Phil Haussener, agricultural education teacher at Cedar Crest High School. «Part of our plan is to use it in the final step of our Integrated Pest Management unit. This would be when we introduce to students the use of chemicals in controlling pests. As part of their final project, they would have to pick the correct pesticide, read the label, mix it and safely and properly apply it.»
In addition to integrated curriculum opportunities, the unit provides students a chance for career exploration.
«This display will help us better explain all the careers in agriculture. From the salesperson to agronomist, to the technology support specialists. It will allow us to show the students how all these folks play a vital role in the productivity of agriculture,» Haussener says.
The Raven technology education simulator is purposefully designed for both teachers and students, featuring cutting-edge precision technology. Simulators have a compact and adaptable format that seamlessly integrate into any learning environment. The simulator comprises two essential components of Raven technology: The Viper® 4+, Raven’s premier in-cab display, and the RS1™, Raven’s three-in-one GPS, Connectivity and autosteer sensor. These elements come together to create a realistic and immersive learning experience for students. Users can learn to operate New Holland equipment and practice various scenarios within a safe and controlled environment.
Local Dealer, Messick’s Equipment, Playing Role in Student Education The simulator was officially presented to the Cedar Crest FFA chapter on August 4, 2023, at local New Holland dealer Messick’s Equipment’s headquarters in Mount Joy. The ceremony included members of Cedar Crest FFA chapter, the Cedar Crest High School faculty and staff from New Holland Agriculture and Messick’s Equipment.
The donation of the simulator establishes a valuable connection between Cedar Crest students and Messick’s Equipment. As part of the official presentation, Cedar Crest FFA students had the opportunity to engage directly with industry professionals and gain insight into the practical applications of precision agriculture.
«The adoption rate of technology being used across farms of all sizes today is higher than ever,» says Mary Henry, Messick’s Corporate Sales Manager. «Creating an awareness of the career opportunities in precision technology is critical to farm dealerships and engaging with students early opens doors to a future in agriculture that these students may otherwise have not been exposed to. We are proud of Cedar Crest’s accomplishment in this competition that will allow them to gain hands-on experience.»
Messick’s Equipment has and continues to play a role in providing local students the opportunity to explore the latest New Holland equipment and technology offerings, and how they related to potential career pathways. The partnership between the program, students and Messick’s is a significant step in bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world implementation.
«The technology that moves us forward will serve as an opportunity to face farm labor shortages head on, reduce expenses, help us gain efficiencies in production and land use, reduce machine downtime and provide even greater focus on environmental stewardship. Messick’s is excited to have a partner in New Holland that is dedicated to supporting programs that not only develop the technology, but train and support a new generation of leaders,» Henry says.
Visit New Holland at the 96th National FFA Convention & Expo New Holland will be exhibiting during the National FFA Convention & Expo November 1–4, 2023, in Indianapolis. Beyond showcasing the latest New Holland products and technology, attendees will have the opportunity to experience a special celebration of the 75th anniversary of the New Holland and National FFA partnership. For more information, visit www.newholland.com.
