Precision Agriculture: Developing the Future of Farming

What does a career in Precision Agriculture look like?

  • Are you mechanically inclined and an analytical thinker?

  • Do you have enjoy working outdoors?

  • Do you exhibit a strong work ethic that helps you solve any problem that comes your way?

If so, a career in precision agriculture might be a strong fit for you. may be the perfect match for you. Precision agriculture, also known as AgTech, focuses on the scientific advancement of agriscience, cultivation, processing, and the distribution of agricultural products by using advanced technologies and sustainable practices to optimize global food systems.

Your Pathway to Success

Read on for our comprehensive guide to Precision Agriculture education and training in Montana. Whether you're seeking rapid training programs, certificates, or advanced degrees, you'll find diverse educational pathways to help you align your studies with your career goals.

Check out our Precision Agriculture Career pathways page to explore in-demand AgTech jobs in Montana and take the first step toward a successful career.

Rapid Training, Certificates, and One- and Two-Year Programs

  • Agriculture Certificate (pdf pg. 89)

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: Little Big Horn College’s pilot 33-34-credit Agriculture Certificate (pdf. pg 89) is for students interested in entering production agriculture. It offers a combination of courses to provide a broad knowledge base in applied natural sciences and livestock management. The certificate is also designed for students who wish to continue their education and pursue an associate of science degree in livestock management & industry or rangeland ecology & management.

  • Geospatial (GIS) Certificate

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: The Certificate in Geospatial Science program will provide students with a solid foundation in the theory and application of geographic information. GIS (Geographic Information System) is a computer-based mapping tool for understanding spatial data—it involves gathering, storing, manipulating, analyzing, and displaying spatial information. The program also provides continuing education opportunities for professionals currently in the workforce who may be interested in expanding or maintaining their skill level in geospatial science.

  • GIS Certificate

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: The University of Montana’s Certificate in GIS Sciences & Technologies is a complement to any existing major at UM or as an addition to a bachelor’s degree obtained at another university. The purpose of the certificate is to ensure the knowledge, understanding, and training necessary to acquire, process, analyze, and properly display digital geographic data.

  • Geospatial (GIS) Certificate

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Technology Certificate of Applied Science (CAS) program provides learners with hands-on lessons and projects to acquire the abilities to become familiar with ArcGIS Pro software, ArcGIS Online and Web/Mobile Apps to utilize these technologies to plan, design, build, and maintain effective communication through mapping. Students obtain the skills necessary to prepare them for entry-level employment in the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) fields.

    Environmental Science Associate of Science (A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description:Fort Peck Community College’s Associate of Science Degree (AS) in Environmental Science is a transferable degree to various university systems in Montana, North Dakota, & South Dakota. The department strives to provide exceptional educational opportunities through a blend of classroom, laboratory and field activities. Students can obtain jobs in government, Office of Environmental Protection, industry, environmental consulting firms, natural resource, bureau of land management and various environmental non-profit agencies that deal with environmental issues.

  • Agriculture & Equine Studies Certificate

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: The one-year Agriculture & Equine Studies program at Miles Community College is designed to develop the skills necessary to understand the basics of agriculture, natural resources, and equine management. Students should consult the catalog of the institution to which they expect to transfer and select appropriate courses in consultation with their advisor.

    Agriculture Production Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Agriculture Productionprogram prepares students to work in the agriculture industry in production livestock, farm and ranch management or agri-sales. It offers more in-depth learning in the areas of agriculture and business management than those covered in the one-year agriculture certificate. This degree is designed for those students who want to enter the job market with a two-year degree, and who do not plan to transfer to a four-year institution.

    Agribusiness Associate of Science (A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Miles Community College’s two-year Agribusiness emphasis is designed to allow students to attain employment upon graduation in production agriculture and other agriculture-related endeavors such as agriculture banking, agriculture sales, crop adjusting, and farm and ranch management. Students may also transfer to four-year programs like Montana State University—Bozeman’s College of Agriculture and complete a baccalaureate degree in two additional years.

    Agriculture & Natural Resources A.S.

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Students in the Ag & Natural Resources program will learn the basics in agriculture production and natural resources management and will be able to develop a degree program that will fit their needs. This option incorporates courses from natural resources to animal science with the flexibility to allow the student to create the degree they want to reach their education and transfer goals.

    Agriculture Education & Leadership A.S.

    Crop Science A.S.

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The two-year Crop Science emphasis at MCC is designed to providing students with the basics of crop production. The program is designed for students who plan to transfer into Montana State University Crop Science program. Students will learn the basics of plant biology, soils, biology, and chemistry.

    Natural Resources & Rangeland Management A.S.

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The two-year Natural Resources & Rangeland Management emphasis at MCC utilizes applied plant and animal sciences to manage the northwestern rangelands by balancing competing demands on the environment. Students will consider the soil, plants, and animals as a whole in their resource management plans. They will contemplate domestic grazing, wildlife impact and other land uses within the framework of total resource management. This degree is meant to transfer into a Bachelor of Science program to prepare students for employment with state and federal land management agencies.

  • Diesel Technology Certificate of Applied Science (C.A.S.) or Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: Certificate = 1 year; Associate = 2 years

    • Description: Get ready to rev up your career and earning potential by exploring the field of diesel technology at City College. This program is driven by industry demands for technicians that are well-versed in the aspects of diesel technology including heavy-duty equipment, trucks and agriculture applications. Students will build essential skills in the theory and diagnosis of diesel engines, power trains, chassis, hydraulics, electrical systems, and fuel injection systems just to name a few.

  • Diesel Technology Certificate of Applied Science (C.A.S.) and Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: Certificate = 1 year; Associate = 2 years

    • Description: Do you enjoy working with engines and heavy machinery? Diesel Technology is a high-demand field that focuses on maintaining, repairing, and managing diesel-powered equipment. From agriculture and construction to transportation and mining, diesel technicians keep essential industries running by mastering skills in powertrains, hydraulics, and electrical systems. At MSU-Northern, you’ll gain hands-on experience working with industry-standard equipment in state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring you graduate job-ready for careers in diesel service, equipment management, and field maintenance. 

    Agriculture Technology A.A.S.

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Interested in a hands-on career in agriculture? The Agriculture Technology program at MSU-Northern provides a foundational education in agricultural production and management, focusing on practical applications for farm and ranch operations. This career-focused program equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the agriculture industry, covering essential topics such as plant and animal sciences, pest management, and agricultural business. As an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, this program can stand alone or serve as a seamless pathway to the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Operations Technology through a 2+2-year degree track.

    Agriculture Mechanics Technology A.A.S.

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Are you passionate about agricultural machinery and equipment? The Agriculture Mechanics Technology program at MSU-Northern focuses on the maintenance, repair, and management of farm equipment essential to modern agriculture. This hands-on program prepares you to service and repair tractors, combines, planting and harvesting equipment, and more. Rooted in Agriculture Operations Technology, this program specializes in machinery and systems critical to agricultural productivity. You’ll gain technical expertise to meet the growing demands of farm equipment repair and maintenance in the agriculture industry. 

  • Environmental Science Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The goal of Aaniiih Nakoda College’s Environmental Science program is to provide skills for entry-level employment opportunities and continuation of education in environmental science, forestry, fish and wildlife management, biology, water quality, soil conservation, and range conservation.

  • Agriculture /Animal Science Assoicate of Science (A.S.) (pdf pg. 78)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Chief Dull Knife College’s Associate of Science (A.S.) (pdf pg 78) has been designed to be a transfer plan of study to four-year MUS institutions offering a Bachelor’s in Animal Science. In addition to the completion of general education requirements this plan offers students the opportunity to complete 100-200 level courses needed for acceptance to upper-division classes at MUS institutions.

    Environmental Sciences A.S. (pdf pg. 85)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Chief Dull Knife College’s Environmental Sciences Associate of Science (A.S.) (pdf pg 85) has been designed to be a transfer plan of study to four-year MUS institutions offering a Bachelor’s in Animal Science. In addition to the completion of general education requirements this plan offers students the opportunity to complete 100-200 level courses needed for acceptance to upper-division classes at MUS institutions.

  • Natural Resources Conservation and Management, Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Natural Resources Conservation and Management program at FVCC prepares students to work as technicians collecting and interpreting environmental information. Students develop practical skills in measuring forest and water resources, field navigation and surveying, insect and disease identification, soil health, recreation management, and using geospatial technology to document and understand the world.

  • Diesel Technology Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Diesel Technology program at Helena College prepares students to enter various segments of the diesel repair industry as an entry-level technician. This includes, but is not limited to agricultural, industrial equipment and the heavy-duty diesel truck repair industry. This program provides comprehensive training in maintenance, diagnosis, and repair of related electrical/electronic systems, mobile hydraulic systems, manual and hydraulic drive trains, brakes, air systems, diesel engines, general maintenance, alignment and undercarriages, and HVAC as used in equipment common to the diesel repair industry. 

  • Diesel Technology Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Students in Missoula College’s Diesel Equipment Technology program train to be diesel mechanics that repair diesel-powered trucks and heavy equipment. Students study hydraulics, electrical systems, fuel systems, power trains, air conditioning, brakes and suspension, engine theory, and engine diagnosis, beginning with basic principles and proceeding to an advanced level of system technology.

  • Natural Resource/Geospatial Technology Associate of Science

    • Program Length: 2 years

Minors and Four-Year Programs

  • Agriculture Studies Minor

    • Program Length: 3 years

    • Description: The minor in Agriculture at the University of Providence provides students with an understanding of key concepts, practices, and issues in agriculture. Through a combination of coursework, experiential learning opportunities, and interdisciplinary exploration, students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to address the challenges and opportunities facing the agricultural industry. Upon completion of the minor in Agriculture, students will have developed a strong foundation in agricultural science, business management, and practices. Graduates are prepared for careers in farming, agribusiness, rural development, environmental conservation, research, policymaking, and related fields.

  • Agricultural Business Minor or Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    Agricultural Education Broadfield Teaching (5-12) B.S.

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: The Agricultural Education Broadfield Teaching option at Montana State is specifically designed for students who wish to become licensed to teach agricultural education to middle and high school students in grades 5 through 12. Agricultural Education Broadfield Teaching students are enrolled in a combination of agricultural economics, agricultural mechanics, animal and range science and plant and soil science coursework, as well as education coursework designed to prepare those students to thrive as teachers.

    Earth Science Bachelor of Science (B.S.), GIS/Planning Emphasis

    • Program Length: 4 years

    Environmental Engineering B.S.

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: Housed within the Civil Engineering department at Montana State, the Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Engineering is intended to address the demand for classically trained engineers with focus on environmental, municipal and industrial processes and strengths in water chemistry, fluid mechanics and hydraulics. Students learn to work with the environment, not against it, preserving and protecting resources while providing for the structural needs of society.

    Environmental Horticulture Science B.S.

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: Students of Environmental Horticulture Science in the Plant Sciences & Plant Pathology department at Montana State take fundamental courses in biology, chemistry and math prior to taking specialized courses such as plant physiology, plant pathology and plant reproduction. Students can also expect to take courses in ecology, business and communications to best prepare them for careers in such areas as floral and nursery crop production and in research with private companies, public agencies or higher education.

    Environmental Sciences B.S.

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: Students in the Environmental Sciences program at Montana State are exposed to a broader, more general view of the environmental sciences, whether in preparation to transfer into a more specialized major option or simply to get a broader understanding of land and natural resource systems. Students receive training in applied ecology, soil and water science and land resources analysis, as well as experience in developing and implementing effective land management strategies. The Environmental Sciences major at Montana State offers four additional Options Within the Major: Environmental Biology, Geospatial & Environmental Analysis, Land Rehabilitation, and Soil & Water Science.

    Sustainable Food & Bioenergy Systems B.S., Agroecology Emphasis

  • Applied Agriculture Minor

    • Program Length: 3 years

    • Description:The Applied Agriculture Minor at MSU-Northern provides a focused study in agricultural sciences and technology, designed to complement a variety of bachelor’s degrees. Located in Montana’s prime agricultural production region, this program blends hands-on experience with modern agricultural practices, preparing you to excel in the evolving field of agriculture.

    Agriculture Mechanics Technology Minor

    • Program Length: 3 years

    • Description: Are you passionate about agricultural machinery and equipment? The Agriculture Mechanics Technology program at MSU-Northern focuses on the maintenance, repair, and management of farm equipment essential to modern agriculture. This hands-on program prepares you to service and repair tractors, combines, planting and harvesting equipment, and more. Rooted in Agriculture Operations Technology, this program specializes in machinery and systems critical to agricultural productivity. You’ll gain technical expertise to meet the growing demands of farm equipment repair and maintenance in the agriculture industry. 

    Agriculture Operations Technology Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: Want to help shape the future of farming and food production? MSU-Northern’s Agriculture Operations Technology program combines traditional agricultural knowledge with cutting-edge technology to meet today's farming challenges. This field focuses on using advanced tools and techniques to make farming more efficient, sustainable, and productive. At MSU-Northern, you'll learn how modern technology like GPS mapping and precision farming equipment works alongside time-tested agricultural practices. You'll study everything from crop science and livestock management to agribusiness principles and technology applications. Located in Montana's Golden Triangle – one of the world's premier grain-producing regions – our program gives you hands-on experience with both traditional farming practices and the latest agricultural innovations. 

    Diesel Technology Minor or B.S.

    • Program Length:

      • Minor = 3 years

      • Bachelor of Science = 4 years

    • Description: Do you enjoy working with engines and heavy machinery? Diesel Technology is a high-demand field that focuses on maintaining, repairing, and managing diesel-powered equipment. From agriculture and construction to transportation and mining, diesel technicians keep essential industries running by mastering skills in powertrains, hydraulics, and electrical systems. At MSU-Northern, you’ll gain hands-on experience working with industry-standard equipment in state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring you graduate job-ready for careers in diesel service, equipment management, and field maintenance. 

    Diesel Technology Equipment Management B.S.

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: The Diesel Technology Equipment Management program at MSU-Northern blends advanced diesel mechanic training with essential business and management skills, preparing you for leadership roles in the diesel industry. This program equips you with technical expertise in diesel repair and maintenance while introducing business principles such as management, communication, and financial decision-making. Graduates leave ready to succeed in both hands-on and administrative capacities in the growing diesel industry. 

    Diesel Technology Field Maintenance B.S.

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: The Diesel Technology Field Maintenance program at MSU-Northern prepares you for challenging off-site environments where flexibility and versatility are essential. This program blends core diesel technology training with specialized welding and fabrication skills, equipping graduates to handle complex repairs in remote or on-location settings. With a focus on real-world applications, this program ensures you are ready to meet the demands of industries like construction, mining, and agriculture where on-location service and field maintenance are crucial. 

  • Environmental Sciences Minor or Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    • Program Length:

      • Minor = 3 years

      • Bachelor of Science = 4 years

    • Description: The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science Program at Montana Western supports the department mission through a focus on scientific skill development and scientific ways of thinking that focuses on Earth systems from tectonics to climate. Montana Western currently has the only field-based undergraduate program in environmental sciences in the state and one of the only field- based programs in the nation. As a result, students are well prepared to succeed in problem-solving and skills-based tasks.

    Environmental Sustainability Minor or B.S.

    • Program Length:

      • Minor = 3 years

      • Bachelor of Science = 4 years

    • Description: Environmental scientists are critical to address today’s pressing environmental challenges. In studying environmental sustainability at Montana Western, students will engage in interdisciplinary, field-based research projects that have societal relevance and require them to communicate scientific understanding to diverse audiences. To meet student needs and professional interests, students can choose from two different tracts: Environmental Naturalist and Natural Resources Stewardship. Within these options students can focus their physical science education in the geological, hydrological, or biological sciences. Through GIS, conflict resolution, and stakeholder engagement training, students will be developing technical as well as communication, leadership, and personal reflection skills that will serve them beyond the classroom.

  • Environmental Studies Minor or Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    • Program Length:

      • Minor = 3 years

      • Bachelor of Science = 4 years

    • Description: Are you driven to find sustainable solutions to the environmental challenges of today?  With the University of Montana’s Environmental Studies classroom programs, field experiences and award-winning faculty you will acquire the skills needed to engage in effective environmental thought and action - skill sets you can apply in your hometown or around the world.

    Environmental Science and Sustainability B.S.

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: Gain the knowledge and skills to solve complex environmental problems and advance sustainability. The bachelor’s degree in environmental science and sustainability at UM connects science and practice, taking advantage of the amazing outdoor classroom that is western Montana. As an ESS student, you’ll engage in real-world learning through class field trips, immersive field courses, summer fieldwork, and internships that traverse the region’s mountains, rivers, and valleys, and connect you with leaders in the ESS field. You’ll work with ESS faculty, who conduct cutting-edge research to solve today’s environmental problems and build solutions that work for people and nature. As an environmental science major, you can specialize in ecosystem science and restoration, climate science and environmental change, water resources, environmental policy and planning, sustainable livelihoods, and communities, or use the highly flexible resource conservation option to design your own emphasis.

  • Ecology Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: The Aaniiih Nakoda Ecology program is designed to prepare graduates to become effective caretakers and stewards of the place they call home – the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation and the surrounding prairies, river bottoms, and island mountain ranges of northcentral Montana. The program employs classroom, laboratory, and field-based instruction, as well as internship placements and undergraduate research experiences, to focus student learning on the dynamic web of interconnections that exist between the Aaniinen and Nakoda nations and their ancestral homelands.

  • Environmental Science Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: Carroll College’s Environmental Science degree offers a soundly integrated and interdisciplinary science background for students supported by coursework in analytical methods and applications, abundant field experience, and aspects of the human dimensions of environmental science.

  • Environmental Engineering Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: Acquire a comprehensive skillset and a readiness to work through the ABET-accredited environmental engineering bachelor’s degree at Montana Tech. The environmental engineering degree features a broad, student-focused curriculum that includes pollution prevention, sustainability, water and air quality, waste water treatment, and land and soil restoration. Montana Tech is one of the only environmental engineering degree programs to offer air quality engineering courses at the undergraduate level.

Post-Graduate Programs

  • Environmental Engineering Master of Science (M.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Montana Tech’s MS in Environmental Engineering provides opportunities for graduate research in the areas of air, water quality and pollution control; hazardous waste minimization, treatment, and control; and waste cleanup. Specific areas of current research include the water chemistry of heavy metals, and hazardous organics; ground and surface water modeling; air emission inventories; biosorption of heavy metals; wetland research, land reclamation, atmospheric diffusion processes; and cleanup of "RCRA" and "super-fund" sites. Environmental Engineering graduate students at Montana Tech generally have the opportunity to obtain work experience prior to graduation. Companies such as Phelps Dodge, Kennecott, Marathon Oil, ARCO, EG&G Idaho, Carter Mining, Envirocon, Special Resource Management, and others hire our students during the summer. In these jobs, students work with professionals in challenging and stimulating situations while following an individualized course of study.

    Geological Engineering M.S., Hydrogeological Engineering Option

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The hydrogeological engineering degree at Montana Tech features a research-based curriculum, with added emphasis on engineering, including courses in groundwater flow modeling, field hydrogeology, advanced hydrogeology and more. You’ll learn from industry-experienced — and connected — Montana Tech faculty who are passionate about helping you succeed in hydrogeology. You’ll be prepared for hydrogeology careers or to pursue your Ph.D in Earth Science and Engineering at Montana Tech.

  • Natural Resources Management Master of Science (M.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Master of Science in Natural Resource Management (MS NRM) Degree Program at SKC is designed to provide access to culturally-sustaining, quality graduate education that prepares students to provide research-based management of natural resources in a variety of fields. The degree aims to synthesize components of indigenous research methodologies with western science, preparing researchers to master the competencies required to conduct studies in tribal communities using both western science and indigenous methodologies.

  • Environmental Studies Master of Science (M.S.)

  • Agriculture Education Master of Science (M.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Montana State’s graduate program in Agricultural Education prepares students for entry into or advancement in formal and non-formal teaching careers. In addition to the wide variety of professional courses in agricultural education, offerings are also available in agricultural economics, animal and range sciences, land resources and environmental sciences, plant sciences and plant pathology, and veterinary molecular biology.

    Environmental Engineering – Master of Engineering (M.Eng.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Candidates in the Environmental Engineering graduate program at Montana State are intended to address the demand for classically trained engineers with focus on environmental, municipal and industrial processes and strengths in water chemistry, fluid mechanics and hydraulics. Students learn to work with the environment, not against it, preserving and protecting resources while providing for the structural needs of society.

    Environmental Sciences M.S. (ONLINE)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: In Montana State’s professional Master’s of Science in Environmental Sciences, available fully online, candidates are able to tailor a program to suit their needs across a variety of disciplinary interests in land resources and ecology. Through integrated, multi-disciplinary coursework and independent study, students will gain a more in-depth understanding of landscapes at multiple scales, as well as how to manage those landscapes given current issues. Candidates will have the opportunity to design projects that build further understanding of principles and processes important to land resources and environmental sciences, with opportunities for direct ties to management.

    Sustainable Food Systems M.S.

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: In the Sustainable Food Systems graduate program at Montana State, candidates dig further into special topics on sustainability and the food industry to better understand the relation between food systems and public health. Sustainable Food Systems graduate student projects can potentially cover a broad range of topics, including but not limited to food system education and public awareness, how local food systems can localize diets, institutional purchasing of local foods, food policies, community supported agriculture, food processing and distribution, community food security, community-based food and nutrition assistance and more. Additionally, students are able to tailor the program to their specific interests by taking coursework connected to health promotion and education, political science, economics, business, Native American Studies, agriculture and food science. 

    Plant Sciences Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

    • Program Length:

      • Master of Science = 2 years

      • Doctor of Philosophy = 3 - 6 years

    • Description: In the graduate program for Plant Sciences at Montana State, candidates pursue research projects within state-of-the-art laboratories on subjects such as plant breeding and genetics, plant pathology, mycology, biotechnology, plant physiology and systematics, molecular evolution and biochemistry. Candidates conduct these projects in labs such as the Plant BioScience Facility or the Plant Growth Center, with over 29 glasshouse rooms and 8,300 square feet of bench space.

Skill Development and Certifications

  • The RDO Equipment Co Access Your Future Service Program is for students interested in a career in the equipment industry as a Service Technician. This program provides two distinct career paths, Service Intern and Service Technician Apprentice, for qualified students who will be attending, are currently attending, or have just graduated from accredited diesel, heavy equipment service, powersports, or other RDO-approved programs. The program provides paid work experience and training along with the potential to earn tools, a graduation bonus, and 4 years of post-graduation financial incentives

  • The Montana American Indians in Math and Science (MT AIMS) program is a partnership between the North American Native Research and Education Foundation (NANREF) and the University of Montana (UM). MT AIMS serves Native American students from 6th – 10th grade. The long-term vision of the AIMS program is to provide linked STEM programming to Native American students across the country, from sixth grade through their freshman year in college, and continued support through the pursuit of a Ph.D. The program utilizes Field Initiated Innovations in improving and expanding STEM learning and engagement. 

  • Montana State University hosts Geospatial Skills Camps in rural areas to teach high school freshmen and sophomores about careers related to GIS and engineering.

  • Thanks to generous donations, the Montana State University College of Agriculture is in the midst of creating and campaigning for a formal precision agriculture program and invest in its opportunities for the state of Montana.

  • The ASE Medium-Heavy Truck Technician (T-Series) is relevant for working in diesel repair and diagnostics

  • The Equipment & Engine Training Council (EETC) offers certifications in diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical systems.

  • The John Deere or Case IH Factory Training is usually offered through dealer networks for brand-specific equipment.

  • The OSHA 10 or 30 certification is safety training often required on farms and in shops.

  • Kahn Academy is a nonprofit with the mission to provide a free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere. Through a wide array of study topics ranging from electrical engineering and calculus to thermodynamics and A.I., Kahn Academy is the hub for all things STEM. Learners can go at their own pace, exploring articles, short video lessons, practice problems, teaching resources, and more. Although Kahn Academy is geared towards students K-12, there are resources for college students and those exploring career options under the website’s “careers” section.

  • Structured query language (SQL) is a programming language for storing and processing information in a relational database. Explore comprehensive SQL learning paths from basic syntax to advanced querying.

  • The Engineer’s Toolbox provides resources, tools, and basic information for the engineering and design of technical applications. In addition, The Engineer’s Toolbox supplies you with unit converters, formulas, and parametric components through its SketchUp extension.

  • The University of Providence’s Argo Connect and dual credit programs are crucial in helping to increase the educational options and opportunities for currently enrolled high school juniors and seniors. Not only do these programs provide students with a unique opportunity to earn credit at the secondary and postsecondary levels simultaneously – they provide students with an early glimpse of college life; including course load, deadlines, structure, and more. Students in Dual Enrollment can take up to three 3-credit courses at no cost.

Additional Career Resources

  • Check out our precision agriculture career pathways page to explore in-demand AgTech jobs in Montana.

  • MSU Extension Agriculture and Natural Programs apply University research and resources to help agricultural producers and landowners increase profits, reduce loss, protect our food supply, and sustain future resources.

  • Through a network of seven Research Centers plus facilities and scientists at the MSU central campus in Bozeman, MAES conduct basic and applied research problems that address Montana’s agricultural and natural resource economies. MAES research spans the depth and breadth of animal health, animal science, agronomy, horticulture, range sciences, agricultural economics, plant sciences and natural resource and pest management.

  • On the air since 1975, the Northern Broadcasting System delivers nearly 200 radio programs each week to listeners across Montana, Wyoming and the Western Dakotas. The Northern Ag Network provides hourly farm news and market reports, weather programs and special features. In addition, the Northern Ag Network produces two daily Ag Television programs each morning, which are seen on nine of Montana’s premier television stations.

  • As Montana continues to emerge as a thriving tech hub, it’s creating abundant opportunities across the state’s diverse tech sector. Our list of 31 Hot Montana Jobs 2025 includes opportunities for Montanans of all backgrounds, with pathways into fields such as robotics, digital forensics, and game design.

  • To identify in-demand roles in Montana, our team at the Montana High Tech Business Alliance pored over workforce data from the U.S. Department of Labor, research studies, and online job listings to create a list of tech jobs projected to grow fast in the next few years. See our list of 31 hot Montana jobs projected for 2023.

  • We invite you to take advantage of Microsoft's Skills for Jobs initiative, which offers free access to LinkedIn Learning courses covering a wide range of topics, including AI and soft skills. Enhance your digital skills and empower your team and community with valuable knowledge that aligns with the evolving needs of today's economy.

  • CompTIA’s Career Explorer is a comprehensive resource designed to inform, inspire, and guide individuals toward their next career step in the tech industry and beyond. Explore the entire portfolio of Career Explorer resources at no cost, watch video profiles featuring diverse professionals sharing their non-traditional paths into tech careers, and gain insights into earnings potential, job outlook, employer hiring trends, remote work opportunities, and much more across the U.S. and 250 metro areas.

  • Reach Higher Montana’s Work-Based Learning Collaborative website features resources for employers to grow their talent pipeline through work-based learning, materials to help educators connect their classroom learning to careers, and links to resources that will help Montana students explore their career interests through on-the-job training.

  • The WBLC Data Dashboard aims to make data on work-based learning in Montana accessible to help improve workforce support, work-based learning, and educational opportunities so that young people are better prepared for employment success and employers gain skilled workers. Updates are made annually.

  • Produced by the Montana Work-Based Learning Collaborative, the WBL Toolkit for Employers provides employers with resources, tools, and guidance to successfully develop high-quality work-based learning experiences for student workers.

  • The informational interviews handout from the University of Montana College of Business lists five steps for setting up successful informational interviews to learn more about a specific company or industry.

  • Internships serve as crucial stepping stones into the workforce. Check out “Internships 101: Aceing Your Application” for expert tips from Montana High Tech Business Alliance members to confidently apply for your next internship.

  • Read “5 Tips to Set Yourself Up for Success in a Tech Career” to learn tips for launching a career in tech from hiring managers at Blackfoot Communications, Submittable, GL Solutions, onX, Skyfish, Cognizant, NorthWestern Energy, Pathlabs, Snapchat, and Instacart.

  • In “5 Tips from Hiring Managers - How to Land a Montana Tech Job or Internship” local hiring managers from Boeing Helena, Hyundai Motor Group, and Zoot Enterprises share advice to help students stand out when applying for a Montana tech job or internship.

  • See what tips you can use to give you an advantage in pursuing tech jobs or internships in Montana.

  • Learn more about engineering career pathways and high-tech jobs available to you through Gallatin College and Montana State University.

  • Check out MHTBA’s Great Places for Tech article series to learn more about high-tech opportunities in Montana.

  • Take a look at our Jobs board that we use to post many tech jobs that are in Montana from entry level to Senior level positions.

  • If you can’t find what you’re looking for on our Jobs Board, see this O*NET Career Database for additional information.

  • Interested in more careers outside of Montana or outside the High Tech Industry? Find additional occupational information on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

Do you have a helpful resource you’d like to suggest we add to this guide? Do you have information you are searching for, or other feedback? The Montana High Tech Business Alliance would love to hear from you. Please reach out to us at communications[at]mthightech.org.

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