By Forrest Lang, ASM Program Coordinator
One of the most common questions I hear from students and parents is, “What is Agricultural Systems Management?” It’s a question I asked myself as an undergrad when I switched from Agricultural Engineering to Agricultural Systems Management during my first year of college.
If you ask the artificial intelligence, you’ll get a definition like this:
“Agricultural Systems Management (ASM) focuses on optimizing agricultural productivity by integrating technology, data analysis, and engineering principles to improve the efficiency of farming operations, equipment, and resource management. ASM professionals bridge the gap between agricultural science and practical application, enhancing farm performance through innovations in machinery, precision agriculture, and environmental sustainability.”
That’s a solid definition, but let’s break it down.
ASM is all about hands-on problem-solving in the agricultural industry. It’s a program that equips students with practical skills and technical knowledge across a wide range of topics. Our students learn to connect concepts across courses, developing critical thinking skills that help them tackle real-world challenges. Think of it as applied engineering—using agricultural principles and technological advancements to improve processes, develop solutions, and optimize systems. It is a program that will allow students to become a well rounded agricultural professional whether they are going into industry or moving back home to manage the family farm.
The second most common question I hear is, “What careers do ASM graduates pursue?” The best answer? Almost anything in the agricultural industry.
As an ASM graduate, I became a teacher—but not before completing several internships in the grain handling industry and spending time researching machinery performance. My classmates took many different paths:
- One started a welding business
- Another launched a seed dealership
- One built a drone spraying company
- Others became agronomists, research managers, or precision technology technicians at equipment dealerships
- Some work in livestock management, environmental conservation, and natural resource management
- Many have returned to their family farms, applying new knowledge to advance their operations
These are just a few examples of the diverse career opportunities available to ASM graduates.
At Ohio State ATI, we emphasize hands-on, applied learning, ensuring that students gain real-world experience with the equipment and technologies they’ll use in their careers. Students in our program install guidance systems on UTVs; operate planters, tillage tools, and combines; learn various types of welding from stick to TIG; gain experience troubleshooting hydraulic, electric, and engine systems; and learn the fundamentals of business and machinery management.
Whether you’re interested in agricultural technology, precision farming, agribusiness, or sustainability, ASM provides the tools to help you succeed. I’m always looking to connect with students, faculty, and industry partners to grow our program and support the next generation of agricultural professionals. If you’re interested in learning more about ASM and how it can help shape your future, reach out—I’d love to talk!
