Sebastian Whittington, Larned High School senior, has applied and been chosen to receive a full-ride scholarship to BTI’s Ag Tech program. This program guarantees employment for Sebastian at BTI as a Service Technician after graduating from the program. This two-year program is a $30,000 value.

The BTI Ag Tech program is a full-ride scholarship that includes tuition, fees, books, campus room and board, and a tool loan that the student will pay back interest free. This is all provided with a five-year commitment to work for BTI after graduation. The Ag Tech program is a two-year program that allows students to graduate with an associate degree from a community college that has a John Deere sponsored Ag Tech program. BTI partners with Fort Scott Community College, Garden City Community College, and Southeast Community College in Milford, Neb. and allows students to select the best fit for them. Students learn not only in a classroom setting, but they take what they have learned and head out to the shop and apply it in a hands-on setting. The program also includes internship opportunities at the student’s BTI location during two scheduled program internships as well as school breaks, such as summers and spring break. During these internships, students learn from experienced Service Technicians and get paid during their internship. 

“We are so excited to have Sebastian join our team. He is a well-rounded individual and we know he’ll thrive at school. Sebastian is going to be a great service technician.” said BTI Great Bend Service Manager, Steve Brummer. 

While at Larned High School, Sebastian has enjoyed his time on the football, track, and powerlifting teams. This fall he plans to attend Southeast Community College in Milford, Neb. Sebastian chose BTI because he loves being around tractors and combines, and he is used to running John Deere equipment.