At the event, AGCO Parts presented two Illinois-resident students pursuing an agriculture-related field of study with $1,000 employee-funded scholarships, AGCO-branded backpacks and school supplies. Erik Dunteman of Big Rock received the first-ever AGCO Parts Division scholarship. Currently studying mechanical engineering at Iowa State University, Dunteman intends on specializing in agricultural mechanics. Heidi Harbecke of Sycamore received the first-ever AGCO Global Women’s Network (AGWN) Parts scholarship. Currently a senior at Sycamore High School, Harbecke will be attending college in the fall, majoring in engineering with a future focus on engineering in agriculture.
To be eligible for these scholarships, the applicants had to be Illinois residents, planning an agriculture-related career. Scholarship applicants were evaluated on academics, activities and leadership, professional goals, financial need, references and exceptional considerations, including a parent’s occupation, unusual family situations and exceptional leadership involvement.
“This event was a great way to connect with our community,” said Andrea Achermann, the AGWN president in Batavia. “We are already in discussions about next year’s event and are finding ways to make it even better. AGCO is looking forward to awarding five scholarships at next year’s Touch-A-Tractor event.”
In addition to the scholarships, AGCO Parts donated a GSI® information booth on grain bin safety for use at future Farm Bureau events. Additionally, the local AGCO dealer, A.C. McCartney of Durand provided machinery and knowledgeable staff onsite for the event.
