The John Deere Technology program at Lake Land College welcomed 20 new technicians to the field at its annual Graduation Recognition Banquet.

A Lake Land press release reported that family and friends of the graduates recently gathered at the Walk Way in Mattoon to celebrate the students’ hard work and dedication.

“We appreciate the 18-year-long partnership with John Deere Company that allows Lake Land to graduate some of the finest technicians in the country,” said Scott Lensink, president of the college.

The John Deere Tech program, offered jointly by John Deere Company and Lake Land College in cooperation with area John Deere dealers, offers students many unique opportunities including earning a salary while learning through on-the-job training at a participating dealership; training on the latest John Deere tractors, combines and implements, and learning the newest diagnostic and servicing procedures.

Sponsored by area John Deere dealers, students also have the opportunity to move directly into employment with their sponsoring dealership upon successful completion of this associate in applied science degree program.

For 2013, Corey Rabe, representing the John Deere Company from Vandalia, was the keynote speaker. Additionally, the Outstanding Student Award and Highest GPA Award went to John Rubrake of Columbia City, Ind.

The area John Deere Tech graduates for 2013 Jeff Grigsby, Casey, sponsored by Schilling Bros., Casey; Clayton Herschberger, Arthur, sponsored by Sloan Implement, Atwood; Patrick Maloney, Noblesville, Ind., sponsored by Arends-Hogan-Walker LLC, Ashmore; Jeffry Marcum, Brighton, sponsored by Wm. Nobbe Co., Jerseyville; Tyler Maurer, Fisher, Arends-Hogan-Walker LLC, Melvin; Emil Nissing, Wright City, Mo., sponsored by Sydenstricker Implement, Moscow Mills, Mo.; Robert Pugh, Marshall, sponsored by Schilling Bros., Casey; Ryan Shepherd, Charleston, sponsored by Arends-Hogan-Walker LLC, Ashmore.

For more information about the John Deere Ag Tech program, call 217-234-5308 or adrake@lakeland.cc.il.us.