Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, in partnership with Kubota and Parish Tractor, held a special presentation ceremony on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at the West Harrison County Center to award student Newt Smith with a toolbox as part of the Kubota TECH Toolbox Program. Smith, a student in the Heavy Equipment Maintenance Technology program at MGCCC, is currently employed by Parish Tractor in Poplarville, putting his skills to work while continuing his education.

The presentation was led by Ben Bowman and Lamont Davis, instructors for the program, who praised Smith for his dedication and hard work. The Kubota TECH Toolbox Program is designed to support student technicians working at sponsoring dealerships like Parish Tractor. Through this program, student technicians can acquire essential tools at a fraction of the cost.

The toolbox, valued at more than $11,000, is made affordable through a cost-sharing agreement between Kubota Tractor Corporation (KTC), the sponsoring dealership, and the student technician. The program helps ensure that students like Smith have access to the high-quality tools needed to excel in their field.

“Kubota’s partnership with MGCCC and Parish Tractor provides invaluable support to our students, allowing them to acquire both the tools and the experience necessary for success,” said Davis.

Newt Smith expressed his gratitude for the opportunity: “This toolbox is a game-changer for me. Having access to these tools while I learn and work at Parish Tractor is setting me up for success in my career. I’m extremely thankful for the support from Kubota, Parish Tractor, and MGCCC.”

As part of the program’s terms, student technicians agree to remain employed with their sponsoring dealership for at least 24 months. This initiative provides students with a clear path toward career development and long-term employment.

For more information on the Kubota TECH program, visit yeskubota.com.