The strength of the agriculture program at Marion CSD is no secret. Still, it’s nice to get some credit and this year, the program is getting just that.
Specifically, it’s the Agriculture Mechanics Program at Marion. Just before the start of this school year, the program and its curriculum learned that it is officially certified and recognized by Associated Equipment Distributors Foundation (AEDF). The non-profit foundation for heavy equipment helps promote machinery education both in the classroom and with hands-on experience.
“This is a great accomplishment that reflects the quality of our program, the dedication of our instructors and our commitment to preparing students for careers in the equipment industry,” said Sarah Cuddeback, a first-year Agriculture/Technology teacher at Marion.
With the AED recognition, students at Marion can choose a path for employment that will help address the profound shortage of skilled professionals, especially in the field of heavy equipment. And working with the AED Foundation, students at Marion can focus on a field that is centered on the six core competencies of AED: Safety/Administration, Electrical/Electronics, Hydraulics/Hydrostatics, Power Trains, Diesel Engines and Fuel Systems and AC/Heating.
Cuddeback is excited for this opportunity for Marion students and beyond, especially for those who have enrolled the district’s Agri-Path program to facilitate a desire for agriculture education while meeting the graduation requirements for New York State.
“This is a great new opportunity for our growing program,” said Cuddeback. “I can’t wait to see the impact our small school can make in the larger agricultural community and beyond with the support of the AED Foundation.”
