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Kelly Ratajczak’s dream job is to become a farmer. She’s been training for it since a young age at the 1,100-acre farm she grew up on
in Munger. 

After she graduates from Delta’s agriculture technology program, she plans to one day lead the soybean, dry edible beans, corn and wheat farm her dad started 10 years ago.  

“Farming is definitely in my blood,” said Ratajczak. “My family has been farming ever since our ancestors came over from Poland.” 

It’s true. In fact, her last name means “plowman” in Polish. 

Ratajczak is one of 50 students who were enrolled this year in a unique Delta program that prepares students for careers in the agriculture industry. She’s a recipient of the Kurt W. Anderson Agricultural Scholarship and recently completed the program.  

The associate’s degree and certificate program is a partnership between Delta and Michigan State University’s Institute of Agriculture Technology. All classes are taken at Delta, and by the end of the two-year program, students will receive a certificate from MSU and an associate’s degree from Delta. 

Leslie Siefka, coordinator of the program, said the job outlook is very promising, with many students securing jobs before they graduate. Opportunities range from equipment sales and crop production to farm operations and agronomy management.

“I’ve heard nothing but great reviews from professionals in the local industry about our students,” Siefka said. “It’s so rewarding to see our graduates find success because of the experiences they had at Delta and MSU.” 

Real-world experience is a staple of the program. Students are required to complete internships, and many classes are taught by adjunct instructors who work in the field. Area professionals bring industry knowledge as members of the program’s advisory board. 

The agriculture technology program began at Delta in 2015 with 11 students. More than 50 students are enrolled this year and about 25 alumni are working in many sectors of the agriculture industry in the Great Lakes Bay Region and beyond. 

MSU works with 12 partner schools. Siefka said Delta is one of the larger programs in the state. 

“Thanks to teachers and local businesses, high school students are getting exposure to agriculture careers early on through field trips and agriscience classes,” she said. 

Nathan Beyerlein, from Reese, was in the first graduating class of the program and currently sits on the advisory board. He works as a field sales representative for Frankenmuth-based Star of the West, where he helps farmers map out yearly crop plans and find ways to be more profitable. 

“The program at Delta was a good fit for me because it was close to home and I could still work and help out on my family’s farm while attending school,” said Beyerlein, adding that Delta allowed him to explore career options before he settled on agriculture. 

Like Beyerlein, Ratajczak was drawn the profession because of how much time she would spend outdoors, close to nature. 

Another favorite aspect is working alongside her family every day. 

“We’re all working toward a common goal,” she said. “And I love to watch plants turn from seeds into plants that produce the food that feeds our community.” 

Delta to offer food processing certificate

Delta College recently created a new certificate program in food processing, technology and safety. The two-year program addresses the growing need by area agriculture companies to employ skilled food industry professionals. 

“Many agriculture companies in the area that are involved in food processing came to us with this issue. It makes sense for Delta to offer this program because a lot of people in food processing jobs are beginning to retire, which means that will be many job opportunities for
graduates in the future,” said Leslie Siefka, program coordinator. 

Individuals enrolled in the 60-credit program will learn about food safety, quality control and product development. The certificate will be offered starting fall 2020. 

Student wins statewide agriculture award 

Michael Ceja has a new item to add to his resume. 

The Alma native took first place at the Michigan Collegiate Farm Bureau Discussion Meet in December in Grand Rapids, where he competed with nearly 20 students from colleges and universities across the state. 

The competition challenged participants to build a 20-minute discussion about a topic and offer solutions. Finalists were asked to discuss mental health awareness and a panel of agriculture professionals served as judges. 

“I’m thrilled and still in shock,” Ceja said. “Going into it, I knew I had a good chance because I made it to the state finals last year, but you never know who you’re going to face and how strong they will be.” 

After graduating from Delta, Ceja plans to study social and community service and development. He wants to eventually work for Farm Bureau. 

Interested in learning more about agricultural technology programs? Contact Leslie Siefka, IAT Coordinator at lesliesiefka@delta.edu  or  989-686-9350.