WWCC's John Deere TECH Program Earns Prestigious Platinum Status 

WALLA WALLA – John Deere designates platinum, gold, silver, and bronze rankings to schools participating in its TECH Program. Walla Walla Community College’s John Deere program has been awarded the platinum, the highest level, for its outstanding work in 2024. The recognition is reserved for programs that go above and beyond in key areas such as instructor development, advisory board engagement, enrollment, retention, facilities, processes, scholarships, and safety.

It is a meaningful achievement for Program Director Matthew Bishop, who took the helm of the program in 2023. Bishop sees the award as a testament to the dedication and hard work of WWCC instructors and students, as well as the partnership between John Deere dealerships.

“This award reflects the commitment of the school, our instructors, and the dealerships we collaborate with. We all believe in the value of this program, which is why it has thrived for the past 30 years,” said Bishop.

John Deere partners with 24 colleges in the U.S. and Canada. The WWCC launched the John Deere TECH Program in 1994. It was the second school to participate in the program after John Deere established it in 1989.

“For a long time, we were the only program west of the Mississippi, and to this day, we remain the only one west of the Rockies,” Bishop explained.

While most of the John Deere TECH programs across the country hold gold status, WWCC’s Platinum ranking sets it apart, providing greater access to scholarships and expanded training opportunities for students and faculty.

Interested in learning more? Visit the WWCC John Deere Tech Program website http://www.wwcc.edu/programs/john-deere-technology.