Considered High-Priority Occupation by the Department of Labor and Industry

Technical training is becoming more important because of the development of more complex farm machinery and because of recent efforts to standardize skills within the occupation. The Mechanical Systems Technology Education program prepares students in a general way to sell, select and service agriculture or agribusiness technical equipment and facilities.  Modern equipment uses electronics and hydraulics, making it difficult to perform repairs without specialized training. Students also need to be able to read circuit diagrams and blueprints in order to make complex repairs to electrical systems. Students gain experience in hand and tool safety, welding (stick, mig, tig and gas), plasma cutting, large & small gas and diesel engine maintenance and repair and basic carpentry and building systems.

Industry Certifications

-          PA Skills Certificate

-          National Safe Tractor & Machinery Operator

-          Briggs and Stratton Small Engine Certificate

-          OSHA - Career Safe General Industry (Agriculture) 

Students who complete the requirement of this "Program of Study" and score proficient may be eligible to get free college credits through the statewide SOAR program.