The Iowa-Nebraska Equipment Dealers Association (INEDA) has once again demonstrated its commitment to fostering talent within the agricultural equipment industry by awarding $100,000 in matching scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic year. This initiative, part of the Andrew Goodman Scholarship program, supports 68 students pursuing careers with Iowa and Nebraska equipment dealerships, highlighting a strategic investment in the future workforce.
The Andrew Goodman Scholarship program, established in 2008, addresses a critical need in the industry: the shortage of skilled technicians and employees. By providing financial support, the program not only helps students achieve their educational goals but also enables dealerships to attract and nurture local talent. Since its inception, INEDA has awarded over $935,000 to 792 students, underscoring the program’s significant impact on both students and the industry.
Doug Glunz of Grosshans International emphasized the program’s role in recruiting and developing skilled professionals. “The Andrew Goodman Scholarship program allows Grosshans International to financially support individuals with a passion for the ag equipment and technology field,” Glunz said. “It serves as an important resource for recruiting and developing skilled professionals who contribute to our customers’ success.” This sentiment is echoed by INEDA President and CEO Mark Hennessey, who expressed pride in supporting students’ goals and aspirations. “Technical education lays a strong foundation for numerous career paths, and an equipment dealership is the ideal place for those dreams to take shape,” Hennessey stated.
The scholarship program is designed to be accessible and beneficial for both students and dealerships. INEDA matches scholarship amounts awarded by dealers to eligible applicants up to $1,500 per applicant per year. This matching fund structure encourages dealerships to invest in their employees’ education, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development. Applications for the scholarship are due annually by April 15, providing a clear and consistent timeline for participants.
This year, 21 dealerships participated in the program, including 21st Century Equipment, AgriVision Equipment, AKRS Equipment, and others. Jamie Wubben, HR Manager of K.C. Nielsen LTD, highlighted the program’s value in supporting team members pursuing technical education. “The Andrew Goodman Scholarship is a valuable partnership that supports K.C. Nielsen team members pursuing a technical education,” Wubben said. “It plays a key role in their growth and development by helping them gain essential mechanical and hands-on skills for future careers as service technicians. This scholarship also demonstrates our strong commitment to education and the long-term success of our future leaders.”
The Andrew Goodman Scholarship program exemplifies a proactive approach to addressing workforce challenges in the agricultural equipment industry. By investing in education and development, INEDA and its member dealerships are not only securing a skilled workforce for the future but also empowering students to achieve their career goals. This initiative serves as a model for other industries facing similar challenges, demonstrating the power of collaboration and investment in human capital.