Transforming Agriculture and Technology at Rust College: The Rust Rural AgriTech Program

In the heart of Rust College’s Division of Science and Mathematics, something transformative is happening. Students are stepping out of the classroom and into the field—literally—taking part in a program that’s changing how they see agriculture, technology, and their futures.

Meet Dr. Cadavious Jones, Dean of the Division and the Principal Investigator for the Rust Rural AgriTech program. As Dr. Jones explains, "Today is one of our field days, where students get to apply everything they’ve learned in class to real-world agricultural challenges. It’s a special opportunity, not just for the students, but for the entire community."

The Rust Rural AgriTech program focuses on the critical importance of investing in rural agricultural development. Dr. Jones emphasizes, "When we help students learn advanced skills like drone technology, we’re not just teaching them to fly—we’re helping them lay the foundation for future careers in their own backyards. In rural areas, this is essential." Far too often, talented individuals leave their hometowns for opportunities in bigger cities. Programs like AgriTech are working to reverse that trend by equipping students with the tools they need to create meaningful change in their communities.

One enthusiastic participant, Kelli Randle, reflected on their experience in the program: "The Rust AgriTech program introduced me to drones and their direct application in agriculture. It’s opened up new possibilities, from soil and water analysis to surveying areas that are hard to reach. We’re learning to use cutting-edge technology while gaining valuable business skills that can benefit our future careers."

In a region where agriculture is the lifeblood of the community, these skills are invaluable. Drones allow students to perform tasks like expansive photography, surveying, and crop health analysis—tasks that were once difficult or time-consuming. With the use of drone technology, students are doing this work safely and efficiently, positioning themselves as future leaders in the field.

However, none of this would be possible without the support of the Delta Regional Authority. Their partnership has provided the resources necessary to bring drone technology to students who may have never considered a career in aviation or agriculture before. Thanks to this collaboration, students are learning to fly drones, analyze data, and contribute to a growing industry that directly benefits their communities.

At Rust College, the Rust Rural AgriTech program is about more than just teaching students how to operate drones. It’s about empowering them with the knowledge and skills to build a future that sustains both themselves and the communities they love.

This is how Rust College is building brighter futures—one student, one field day, one flight at a time.