Newman’s mobile ag lab makes its debut in SWK
Newman University has unveiled its newest educational asset, the Smart Mobile Agriculture Lab. The more than $1 million climate-controlled lab will enable students to learn skills using the latest technology in a hands-on manner.
From piloting drones to tractor driving simulations, the region’s largest mobile ag lab enables students to earn field experience ahead of graduation.
“We are excited to present the Newman Mobile Agriculture Lab to the community,” said Alden Stout, vice president academic affairs at Newman University. We are confident that this addition will redefine agricultural education at all Newman campuses and cannot wait to see our students learn and grow using this resource. A huge thank you to our sponsors American Implement, MJE, Garden City Co-op and Heartland Soil Services for making this vision come to life.”
The ribbon cutting for Newman’s Mobile Agriculture Lab took place at the Refinery in Garden City on April 7. The community was encouraged to attend, grab food and beverages, celebrate the ribbon cutting and of course take a tour of the newest trailer in town. U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran spoke ahead of the ribbon cutting and elaborated on how Congressionally Directed Spending funding played a major role in this lab, building on the movement for accessible higher education in Southwest Kansas.
“I am pleased to work with Newman University to expand access to higher education in Southwest Kansas,” Moran said. “This new Mobile Agriculture lab is just one of the many efforts Newman has made to provide accessible education to students across our state. I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on students as they learn and grow in our local communities.”
Newman University students from southwest Kansas to Wichita will be able to make use of this mobile ag lab beginning this summer. Campuses currently include Newman University Wichita Campus and the HERE program schools consisting of Garden City Community College, Dodge City Community College and Seward County Community College.
Founded in 1933, Newman University is grounded in Catholic values and traditions yet is respectful of all faith traditions. At Newman you’ll find people, programs, organizations, and activities designed to educate your mind and inspire your spirit.
The main campus is in Wichita, Kansas with outreach sites in southeast and southwest Kansas, Tulsa and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Newman is a sponsored ministry of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ United States region.
