Mobile ag tech learning lab geared to grades 7-8

    21st Century Equipment has announced use of a mobile technology learning lab, utilizing funds obtained from a Nebraska Developing Youth Talent Initiative grant.
     The mobile technology learning lab empowers 7th and 8th grade students in various areas of STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) learning and exposes youths to the litany of H3 job opportunities available in Nebraska, specifically in agriculture.
    H3 means “high wage, high skill and high demand.”
     “The primary purpose of this project is to inspire interest in STEM opportunities by exposing students to these things earlier in their educational journey,” said Owen Palm, 21st Century Equipment President & CEO.
    “We also want kids to see they can have a rewarding, great-paying career right here,” he said.
     The lab itself is housed in a 40-foot enclosed gooseneck trailer, equipped with heating and air conditioning, allowing it to be used as an outdoor classroom. Within the trailer are workstations that can be used in place or detached and moved into the classrooms as needed.
     The workstations include hands-on computer simulators capable of demonstrating various precision ag technologies.
    Other elements include a FarmBot™, a robotic machine students can program to physically plant seed in various spacings, a 3D printer and two simulators that allow users to virtually operate a tractor working in the field.
    The use of virtual reality goggles will take non-farm students on an actual working farm and feedlot tour.
     “We’re excited to expose students to some of the capabilities we have today in precision agriculture, not only to broaden their understanding of the application of STEM courses, but possibly even to inspire future career aspirations,” said Palm.
    Those interested in having the lab visit their location can reach out to STEM@21stCenturyEquip.com.
    Imperial is home to one of the 21st Century Equipment stores in Nebraska.