Heritage Tractor commits $50K to support OTC

John Deere dealership Heritage Tractor has made a financial commitment to Ozarks Technical Community College as it looks to help boost the education of diesel mechanics in the region.

Heritage Tractor made a five-year commitment to OTC’s diesel technology program, according to a news release. Company spokesperson Jessi Ganoung said the commitment is valued at $50,000 over the course of the five years.

“We are proud to be a small part of the large chain it takes to feed and fuel the world and have always desired to develop and invest in our collective future,” said Derick McGhee, Heritage Tractor’s director of business development, in the release. “OTC is a top-notch and longstanding pillar in the Springfield area. The college’s proximity to our locations makes this partnership a no-brainer."

As part of the partnership, Heritage Tractor is sponsoring a classroom within OTC's Industry Transportation and Technology Center, said Ganoung, noting the company additionally is interested in interacting with students for shadowing and other opportunities.

“Heritage Tractor's investment in our diesel technology program helps the college update our equipment so our graduates are familiar with the latest tools they will use in the workplace,” said Hal Higdon, OTC chancellor, in the release. “Plus, a portion of their donation will fund scholarships and the student emergency fund, which help to smooth out the rough spots in life that can derail a student’s progress toward graduation.”

Heritage Tractor additionally worked with OTC to help the community college earn the designation of John Deere Dealer Partner School, providing John Deere-specific tools and training to students.

Based in Baldwin City, Kansas, Heritage Tractor employs nearly 600 employees at 21 locations in Missouri, Kansas and Arkansas, according to the release. The company operates in Rogersville at 4655 E. U.S. Highway 60 and in Lebanon at 1001 Deere Lane, among other stores in proximity of Springfield, according to its website.