INA, Ill. (August 14, 2025) — Rend Lake College is proud to offer Southern Illinois’ only Agricultural Technology and Digital Agriculture Associate Degree programs — built specifically for today’s agricultural world. These programs are hands-on, high-tech, and designed to help students launch a career in one of the fastest-growing fields in the industry.
If you’re a high school graduate, dual enrollment student, current ag worker, farmer, small business owner, or someone who just loves the land and wants to stay ahead of the curve, this is your opportunity to combine your passion for agriculture with the power of technology.
Program Outcomes
Both programs can be completed in just two years and are designed to meet the real needs of employers. These programs give students the skills to step directly into jobs in equipment dealerships, ag service companies, precision ag startups, and so much more.
Agricultural Technology
The Agricultural Technology AAS Degree provides in-depth experience with tools such as:
- GPS and precision guidance systems
- Drones and autonomous equipment
- Variable rate technology
- Smart farm tools and sensors
Students will learn how to operate this technology and understand how and why it works, giving them an advantage in a highly-competitive career field.
Digital Agriculture
The Digital Agriculture AAS Degree combines agronomy with computer science to help students:
- Collect and manage data
- Analyze soil and crop performance
- Use farm management software
- Make data-driven decisions to improve productivity and sustainability
Career Outlook
The labor market outlook is promising, with 52 employment opportunities projected in Southern Illinois by 2025 alone. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, agricultural technicians in Illinois earn an average annual salary of $47,070, highlighting the program's potential to lead to both lucrative and fulfilling careers.
Whether you're looking to stay on the farm, manage ag operations, or work with the latest tech in the field, these degrees open the door to a future full of opportunity.
At RLC, you won’t just learn in the classroom. You’ll get real, hands-on experience that makes you job-ready from day one. This is more than just school — it’s an investment in your future.
Interested in these programs? Fill out the form below and we'll be in touch. Or visit rlc.edu/agriculture for more information.
