Written by Kinze Jaqua

2025 in Review

2025 has been a year of fun, growth, and excitement at Ohio State ATI and across CFAES Wooster. From student organizations and campus events to experiences on the Columbus campus, this year offered students a wide variety of opportunities to learn, grow, and get involved. Here’s a look back at the year through my perspective as an ATI student and ambassador.

Spring Semester Highlights

One of my favorite parts of being a student at ATI is the community. It’s easy to form close friendships here, and I’m grateful for the people who helped me feel at home while navigating my first year away. Some of my favorite memories include surprise birthday parties, group dinners, and simply spending quality time with friends.

Early in the spring, I joined the Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership department for a day trip to the Columbus campus. Since I’ll be transitioning there next fall to finish my bachelor’s degree, this visit helped calm nerves and build confidence as I got to understand the campus layout, daily flow, and student experience in Columbus.

Throughout the semester, the admissions team hosted several Saturday Open Houses for prospective students and their families. These visits provide an alternative to weekday tours and give families the chance to learn more about academics, admissions, financial aid, and campus life. As a student ambassador for the ATI admissions office, I led campus tours, which are one of the best ways to experience ATI firsthand.

Summer Orientation and Autumn Kickoff

As spring came to a close, we celebrated friends in the Class of 2025 during ATI’s graduation ceremony. Immediately after, we moved into summer orientation, welcoming the incoming class with plenty of excitement for the school year.

Orientation flowed right into August move-in and the start of autumn semester. One of my favorite fall activities was attending Ohio State football games. The season started fast, and it was a great way to connect with other Buckeyes. Student ticket requests open mid-summer, so keep an eye on your OSU email to get your tickets!

Homecoming week and Beat TTUN Week were also major highlights. Many don’t realize Ohio State ATI has its own homecoming court—and I had the honor of being selected for it! I participated in ATI’s Family Day with friends on our homecoming court, rode in the OSU homecoming parade, cheered on the Buckeyes during game day in Columbus, and even attended a dinner at OSU President Ted Carter’s home. It was truly unforgettable, and I highly recommend applying for homecoming court.

Finishing the Year Strong

As fall continued, campus life stayed busy. At the National FFA Convention in late October, many students earned their American FFA Degree and were recognized for other awards. I helped work the booth for ATI at this Indianapolis event, sharing my experiences with prospective students from around the country.

Admissions also hosted our autumn Open Houses, giving more prospective families the opportunity to explore campus. To wrap up the semester, we welcomed FFA chapters from around the state for a campus visit and leadership event.

Looking back at 2025

From friendships and campus memories to leadership opportunities and professional development, 2025 was a year full of growth and involvement. I’m grateful for everything Ohio State ATI has offered and excited for what’s ahead!

For Eric Mowrey, Ohio State ATI offered the best of both worlds. This dairy cattle production and management major from Reynoldsville, Pennsylvania, was drawn to the small-campus environment paired with the opportunity to be part of the larger Ohio State community. Just as important to Eric was ATI’s strong emphasis on hands-on learning.

That practical approach is what Eric appreciates most about ATI, especially the ATI farms. Being able to apply what he learns in the classroom directly to real-world situations has made his education both meaningful and rewarding. “Taking what we’re learning in class and using it on the farms is very beneficial,” he shared.

One of Eric’s most impactful experiences has been earning his artificial insemination certification. This hands-on opportunity allowed him to build valuable technical skills while gaining confidence in his future career in the dairy industry.

Outside of academics, Eric stays closely connected to agriculture. He participates in the ATI Dairy Club and continues to work on his family’s dairy farm. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, watching sports and showing dairy cattle.

As a student ambassador, Eric is excited to meet future Buckeyes and share his ATI experience during recruitment events. While ATI has offered many meaningful moments, the times Eric feels most at home are the simple ones: spending evenings with friends studying, cooking meals, or just hanging out. Those moments, he says, make ATI feel like a true home away from home.

Written by Lilly Cappitte

Virtual tours and online resources are a great way to get an initial feel for a college campus. They offer helpful insight into academics, facilities, and student life. However, visiting in person allows you to experience the atmosphere firsthand and truly see what the campus has to offer beyond the screen.

During a campus visit, students can tour academic buildings, see a showroom apartment that lets them feel what on-campus living is like, and may also tour the farm facilities. Additionally, they often have a one-on-one meeting with faculty, where they can learn about their specific programs of interest and ask questions of faculty in that field. Speaking with faculty while on campus is helpful in finding your place and clarifying your career goals.

According to Forrest Lang, agricultural systems management program coordinator and lecturer, “It’s hard to get an understanding and feel ‘fit’ simply just by reading about it or looking at pictures. You have to see what we have to offer, and what the type of experience is going to be for you,” Lang said. Professor Lang wants to get to know each student—their background, experiences and career goals. He wants to find a program that’s the best fit for them and one that sets them up for success.

A personal meeting with a faculty member can help guide the decision-making process. According to Lang, “a one-on-one connection with a faculty member prior to making the decision makes a huge difference, because it allows the students to feel a personal connection to the campus, be recognized as individuals rather than just numbers, and know that people care about them.” If students are on the fence about a certain program, a visit can provide a lot of clarity as to which program will be the best fit.

Lang enjoys meeting with students and learning where they want to end up in their future career. He also enjoys hearing about students’ interests outside of the classroom. “I enjoy when students ask about specific opportunities that exist outside of class, like student organizations, school trips, and internships. Anything that goes beyond the topic of curriculum,” he said.

If Professor Lang could give one piece of advice to anyone visiting ATI for the first time, it would be to take extra time to explore the experiential, hands-on opportunities. Lang said, “That’s where students spend most of their time, and it’s what makes us unique.”

Each year, Ohio State ATI takes time to recognize the individuals who go above and beyond to support our students, strengthen our campus, and live out the mission of community. From exceptional mentorship and teaching to the behind-the-scenes dedication that makes ATI feel like home, these award recipients represent our campus incredibly well. We are proud to celebrate the staff and faculty members whose commitment, leadership, and passion continue to make a lasting impact on our students and community.

This year’s Outstanding Staff Award recipients were recognized for their dedication, leadership, and commitment to the Ohio State ATI community. Congratulations to Jill Byers, admissions counselor, and Zoey Keith, greenhouse manager.

We are proud to recognize the recipients of the Outstanding Advising Award. The first year advising award was presented to Keegan Hange, Buckeyes Excel program coordinator and advisor, and the second year advising award was presented to Forrest Lang, ASM program coordinator and lecturer.

Mitch Ploskonka, PhD, assistant professor and English area coordinator, was honored with the Distinguished Teaching Award in recognition of his continued impact on students and campus life at Ohio State ATI.

The NACTA Teaching Award of Merit was presented to individuals whose work continues to positively shape the Ohio State ATI experience. Congratulations to Forrest Lang, ASM program coordinator and lecturer, and Ryan Haden, PhD, associate professor of soils and agronomy.

Jon Witter, PhD, interim assistant dean and director, and Penny Nemitz, learning lab coordinator, were recognized with the Friends of Housing Award for the positive impact they continue to make within the housing community at Ohio State ATI. We are grateful for their dedication and the role they play in supporting our campus community.

We are grateful for the incredible work of our faculty and staff and the difference they make every day at Ohio State ATI. These award recipients remind us that excellence is built through dedication, mentorship, and a genuine passion for helping people succeed. Congratulations to all of this year’s honorees and thank you for your continued commitment to making ATI a place where students and colleagues can thrive.

Left to Right: Tyler Duckworth and Clay Schneider

Students at Ohio State ATI have recently strengthened their technical skillsets by earning industry-recognized Starrett Precision Measurement Credentials offered through the college’s partnership with the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3). Students enrolled in the Precision Tools course successfully completed two key certifications: Slide Caliper Measurement and Micrometer Measurement. 

These credentials introduce students to foundational precision measurement skills essential in manufacturing, engineering, diesel technology, and a variety of technical trades. During the credentialing process, students learned to accurately read, interpret, and apply both standard (imperial) and metric measurement tools—skills that are critical for quality control, diagnostics, and equipment repair. 

To earn the Slide Caliper Measurement and Micrometer Measurement credentials, students were required to demonstrate proper tool handling, measurement accuracy, and interpretation of readings across different units and applications. Each credential also included a written assessment to verify understanding of measurement principles and tool functionality. 

About the Starrett–NC3 Program
The Starrett credentialing system, supported by industry-leading precision measurement manufacturer L.S. Starrett Company, provides students with hands-on practice using professional-grade tools. The curriculum emphasizes accuracy, consistency, and attention to detail—qualities highly valued by employers across technical fields. 

Through partnerships like NC3 and Starrett, Ohio State ATI continues to prepare students for the expectations of today’s technical workforce by integrating industry-aligned certifications directly into coursework. 

For more information about the Power and Hydraulic Engineering Technologies program and industry partnerships, please contact Program Coordinator Robby Frutchey at frutchey.3@osu.edu. 

Left to Right: Mike Church, Tyler Duckworth, Toby Rogers, Caleb Shaw, Nate Sword, and Clay Schneider

Students enrolled in the Components and Fluid Circuits course at Ohio State ATI have earned an important industry-recognized credential: the Kubota University – Kubota Basic Hydraulics Credential. This online certification is part of the Kubota University Certified Service Technician training pathway, a professional development program required for all Kubota dealership technicians. 

The Kubota Basic Hydraulics credential introduces students to essential hydraulic principles, system components, and diagnostic concepts foundational to Kubota equipment service. As part of Kubota University, this credential must be completed by dealership technicians before advancing to higher-level service training in construction, agricultural, and specialized Kubota equipment. 

Students who complete Certified Service Technician coursework while still in school gain a significant advantage when applying for positions at Kubota dealerships. By beginning this training early, they enter the workforce with competencies that many technicians do not gain until after hiring, giving them a substantial head start in career readiness and advancement. 

The Kubota University program is 100% developed, structured, and supported by Kubota Service Technicians and master instructors, ensuring that the training reflects real-world service standards and the technical proficiency expected across Kubota’s national dealer network. 

Through industry-aligned coursework and strong manufacturer partnerships, Ohio State ATI continues to prepare students for success in today’s rapidly evolving equipment service and repair industry. 

For more information about the Power and Hydraulic Engineering Technologies program and industry partnerships, please contact Program Coordinator Robby Frutchey at frutchey.3@osu.edu. 

Left to Right: Tyler Duckworth, Caleb Shaw, and Mike Church

Students enrolled in courses at Ohio State ATI have recently earned important industry credentials embedded directly into their coursework. One hundred percent of the students in the Introduction to Power Unitscourse successfully achieved the Kubota TECH Level 1 Product Delivery and Inspection Certification, marking a significant accomplishment for both the students and the Power and Hydraulic Engineering Technologies program. 

To earn this credential, students must demonstrate proper safety procedures, show a thorough understanding of equipment operation, perform accurate product setup and delivery processes, and conduct complete equipment inspections to Kubota standards. Students gain hands-on experience using a Kubota B26 tractor, RTV-X, and ZD1021 zero-turn mower. In addition to the practical skills assessment, they must also pass a written exam to obtain certification. 

The Kubota TECH program is designed to equip aspiring technicians with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career in the off-road diesel equipment industry. It prepares technicians to inspect, service, diagnose, and support Kubota equipment. Through partnerships with schools and dealerships across the country, the program ensures that students gain the real-world experience necessary to become integral members of the Kubota workforce. 

Program Benefits
Students who complete Kubota TECH certifications have the opportunity to pursue careers as Kubota technicians in dealerships nationwide. The program supports job placement, excellent earning potential, strong benefits, and the chance to apply newly acquired technical skills to serve Kubota dealers and customers. The Kubota TECH program empowers technicians to become leaders in the industry. 

Career Opportunities
Students can work with sponsoring dealerships and participate in internship programs that provide mentorship from experienced Kubota technicians. This hands-on guidance helps students learn to inspect, prepare, and support equipment correctly, efficiently, and to Kubota’s standards. 

Kubota and NC3 (National Coalition of Certification Centers) collaborate to shape tomorrow’s workforce through industry-supported curriculum, hands-on training, and nationally recognized certification programs. Kubota TECH certificates provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to meet industry demands and support Kubota customers across the country. 

For more information about the Power and Hydraulic Engineering Technologies program and industry partnerships, please contact Program Coordinator Robby Frutchey at frutchey.3@osu.edu. 

Left to Right: Mike Church, Tyler Duckworth, Toby Rogers, Caleb Shaw, Nate Sword, Clay Schneider, and Tyler Rawlings

Students enrolled in courses at Ohio State ATI have recently earned important industry credentials embedded directly into their coursework. One hundred percent of the students in the Fundamentals of Fluid Power course successfully achieved the Kubota TECH Level 1 Hydraulics Certification, marking a significant accomplishment for both the students and the Power and Hydraulic Engineering Technologies program. 

To earn this credential, students must demonstrate proper safety procedures, show a thorough understanding of equipment operation, perform correct installation of hydraulic components, and conduct hydraulic system testing and troubleshooting. Students gain hands-on experience using a Kubota B26 tractor, RTV-X, and ZD1021 zero-turn mower. In addition to the practical skills assessment, they must also pass a written exam to obtain certification. 

The Kubota TECH program is designed to equip aspiring technicians with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career in the off-road diesel equipment industry. It prepares technicians to inspect, service, diagnose, and repair Kubota equipment. Through partnerships with schools and dealerships across the country, the program ensures that students gain the real-world experience necessary to become integral members of the Kubota workforce. 

Program Benefits
Students who complete Kubota TECH certifications have the opportunity to pursue careers as Kubota technicians in dealerships nationwide. The program supports job placement, excellent earning potential, strong benefits, and the chance to apply newly acquired technical skills to serve Kubota dealers and customers. The Kubota TECH program empowers technicians to become leaders in the industry. 

Career Opportunities
Students can work with sponsoring dealerships and participate in internship programs that provide mentorship from experienced Kubota technicians. This hands-on guidance helps students learn to diagnose and repair equipment correctly, efficiently, and to Kubota’s standards. 

Kubota and NC3 (National Coalition of Certification Centers) collaborate to shape tomorrow’s workforce through industry-supported curriculum, hands-on training, and nationally recognized certification programs. Kubota TECH certificates provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to meet industry demands and support Kubota customers across the country. 

For more information about the Power and Hydraulic Engineering Technologies program and industry partnerships, please contact Program Coordinator Robby Frutchey at frutchey.3@osu.edu. 

Left to Right: Mike Church, Toby Rogers, Tyler Duckworth, Clay Schneider, Caleb Shaw, and Tyler Rawlings

Students at Ohio State ATI have recently earned several nationally recognized safety credentials through the college’s ongoing partnership with the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3). As part of their coursework, students enrolled in the Workplace Safety course successfully completed the requirements for the 3M Head, Eye and Face Protection Credential; the 3M Respiratory Protection Credential; and the 3M Hearing Protection Credential. 

These industry-aligned certifications introduce students to essential workplace safety practices and prepare them to make informed decisions about personal protective equipment (PPE) in real-world environments. To earn these credentials, students must demonstrate knowledge of hazard identification, proper equipment selection, correct fitting procedures, and safe operating practices. Each certification also includes a written assessment to verify student understanding of 3M’s safety standards and best practices. 

The 3M–NC3 safety credentialing program is designed to strengthen the next generation of technicians, operators, and industry professionals by emphasizing the importance of occupational safety from the very beginning of their careers. Through hands-on demonstrations, equipment labs, and expert-guided instruction, students gain practical experience that directly aligns with national industry expectations. Employers recognize these certifications as valuable indicators of a student’s readiness to work safely and effectively. 

For more information about the Power and Hydraulic Engineering Technologies program and industry partnerships, please contact Program Coordinator Robby Frutchey at frutchey.3@osu.edu. 

First-year agricultural communication student from Shreve, Ohio, Andi Schuch, was drawn to the small-campus environment paired with the strength of an Ohio State education. “I chose Ohio State ATI because of the welcoming atmosphere and the small campus feel,” she said. “You’ll get all the benefits of a bigger university while still having a close-knit community.”

For Andi, that sense of community quickly became one of her favorite parts of being a Buckeye. She loves ATI’s apartment-style housing and credits the faculty and staff for helping her feel supported and confident. “They’re so helpful and they really want to you to succeed,” she said.

Andi has found her passion in an intro to agricultural communication class. She enjoys the real-world experience the course provides, especially projects where she gets to interview industry professionals and explore careers in agricultural communication. Those opportunities, Andi says, have helped her prepare for her future and strengthened her excitement for the field.

As a student ambassador, Andi is excited to welcome new students and help them feel at home, something she personally initiated during her first week on campus. She and her roommate invited the new people they’d met over for dinner, and that simple gathering blossomed into a friend group that still spends time together. “We formed a group that feels like family,” she said. It’s that feeling of belonging that Andi hopes to pass on to every new Buckeye she meets.