Haxtun senior Kristopher Hadeen signed a letter of intent with 21st Century Equipment on Friday afternoon in front of family, friends and school supporters. Hadeen plans to attend Southeast Community College in Milford, Neb. as part of the John Deere Ag Tech Program.

John Deere partners with various colleges for the John Deere Ag Tech Program which allows students to graduate with an Associate of Applied Science degree while also completing a cooperative work experience at a sponsoring John Deere dealership location. Students gain hands-on experience while learning diagnostic and repair procedures using the latest high-tech electronics and software programs. Students graduate from the program having completed the John Deere core certification requirements.

The John Deere Ag Tech Program will cover 100 percent of Hadeen's tuition, fees, books and room and board as well as provide him with a Snap-on tool set and a rolling tool box. As part of the program, Kristopher will receive a laptop and take part in a paid internship. He will also receive a $2,500 incentive bonus following the successful completion of summer employment prior to starting college.

Kristopher currently works at 21st Century Equipment in Holyoke as a student technician. He job shadows under the lead master tech, a job he's held for the past two years. Kristopher said he became interested in the John Deere Ag Tech Program because of his love for investigating how things work and putting the pieces back together.

"I am most excited for getting a higher education in diesel mechanics and autonomous equipment," Hadeen said. He is looking forward to learning more about how artificial intelligence is influencing agriculture through John Deere.

Kristopher is the son of Steve and Chris Hadeen, Haxtun, and plans to graduate with Haxtun High School's Class of 2023 in May.

"The biggest benefit for us as a dealership is that we attract local students who want to return to the area and start careers. We have a huge need to grow the diesel technician profession and these students have a desire to be a part of the communities where they grew up," said Mary Eisenzimmer, 21st Century Equipment Recruiting Manager. "In addition to tuition/room/board reimbursement, they also make very competitive wages and full benefits. Kristopher is a great candidate because he enjoys working on ag equipment, providing customer service to farmers in the area and wants to return to Holyoke after college."