The Landmark application creates its own workforce through a student technology program

HOLDERGE – Lilliana Hollister is one of only two women currently enrolled in Landmark Implement’s John Deere Tech program, but she doesn’t let that stop her from following her dreams.

Hollister in 2010. She will graduate from Norris High School in 2022, and always knew she wanted to pursue a career in agriculture. She considered majoring in veterinary science for a degree, but soon decided that wasn’t the best path for her. Instead, she chose to enroll in Landmark Implement’s John Deere Student Tech Program at Southeast Community College in Milford.

“It’s a direct connection to ag, and I’ve always wanted to be a part of the agricultural community. “I grew up on a small farm, and I always wanted to have a career related to it,” Hollister explained.

The John Deere Tech program began in 1989.

“We have a lot of retirements. There were a lot of years, when schools were pushing those four-year degrees, we just didn’t have enough people coming into the field at the rate we needed,” said Deanna Hagen, a recruiting specialist at Landmark.

As a recruitment specialist, Hagen is responsible for recruitment at all 15 Landmark locations. She spends much of her time working with guidance counselors and ag teachers at high schools to identify students who may be interested in becoming diesel technicians.

“Once we identify those students, we work with them for a few years and shelter them in our stores. They might even work for us and spend some time in the store to see if it’s a career choice they’re interested in,” Hagen said.

Students enrolled in the two-year program can attend Southeast Community College or Garden City Community College in Garden City, Kansas. They receive 100% reimbursement for their tuition, fees, books, and room and board. You’ll also receive a $5,000 equipment stipend, paid COOP hours, and guaranteed employment after graduation. To qualify, students must sign a five-year employment agreement with Landmark.

With thousands open to technicians across the country, the program is Landmark’s way of building their own workforce, Hagen said.

Landmark recently created an Ag Tech Student Supervisor position to help students succeed in the program. Dan Nelson had been a Landmark Implementation Services Manager at Holdmark for nine years when he was offered the position. In his role, Nelson helps students transition from high school to college to the workforce.

“I talk to them every week. Every week, we go through classes, work topics, personal topics. “If they have a problem in class, I can help or have someone help me,” Nelson said. “I visit them in Milford at least once or twice a month.”

Graduation rates have increased since he put Nelson in place, and the program has grown from eight students two years ago to nearly 20 students.

“We want them to know we’re here and that we care. They all have different personalities and it’s fun to get to know them, but it’s a challenge to keep them positive,” Nelson said.

Being a woman in a male-dominated field has its challenges, but Hollister hopes that as more women enter the field, there will be more opportunities for everyone.

“It has always been a male-dominated industry. They seem threatened when a woman walks in and does the same thing. Hopefully, the more women get into it, the more men will open up and not feel like we’re taking away their career opportunities,” she explained.

Hollister will graduate in May 2024 with her John Deere Ag Tech associate degree and business administration certificate. She’s not sure yet which Landmark she wants to be employed at, but she’s excited about the path she’s on.

“Anyone can enter any field they want, whether it’s female or male dominated. It’s not unheard of – dudes can be nurses; Girls can be welders; Girls can be mechanics. Anyone can do anything as long as you put your mind to it,” she said.