This pathway prepares students for careers managing mechanical systems within plant production facilities, including nurseries, greenhouses, and agricultural operations throughout Georgia. Students study plant production fundamentals and specialized knowledge of the mechanical systems that support controlled growing environments. The program emphasizes equipment operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for systems critical to plant health and productivity. Georgia's growing nursery industry and commercial agriculture require technicians skilled in both plant science and mechanical systems management.
Curriculum covers greenhouse and nursery operations, irrigation systems, environmental controls, propagation equipment, and facility infrastructure. Students learn diagnostic and repair skills for equipment failures affecting plant production. The pathway develops understanding of automation technologies and precision agriculture systems. Students understand safety protocols and environmental compliance. Field experiences with production facilities develop expertise in equipment management within horticultural contexts. Students engage with Georgia's nursery and landscape industry professionals.
Georgia's significant nursery sector provides abundant field learning opportunities and career placements.
Plant Mechanical Systems at a Glance
3
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Georgia standards require competency in plant production systems, mechanical equipment operation, maintenance, and facility management. Students must understand systems supporting plant growth and productivity.
Courses emphasize practical troubleshooting alongside theoretical understanding of mechanical systems. Certifications in equipment operation and facility maintenance are integrated throughout the pathway.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course | Code |
|---|---|
| Basic Agricultural Science | 02.47100 |
| General Horticulture and Plant Science | 01.46100 |
| Agricultural Mechanics Technology I | 01.42100 |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓NOCTI Agriculture Mechanics
- ✓NOCTI Agricultural Production
- ✓ServSafe Food Handler
- ✓ServSafe Manager
- ✓Certified Veterinary Assistant
- ✓Certified Horticulture Professional
- ✓Certified Landscape Technician
- ✓OSHA 10-Hour General Industry
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Greenhouse Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $27,810 - $37,350
Equipment Maintenance Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $37,790 - $58,950
Nursery Operations Coordinator
ExperiencedSalary range: $27,810 - $37,350
Facility Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $37,790 - $58,950
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Work-based learning with nurseries, greenhouses, propagation facilities, landscape companies, and horticultural research centers throughout Georgia.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in National FFA Organization, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps Georgia CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
Georgia Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with Georgia's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Georgia standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in Georgia
Agricultural Mechanics Systems
This comprehensive pathway prepares students for careers repairing, maintaining, and troubleshooting all types of agricultural equipment throughout Georgia. Students master mechanical fundamentals, hydraulic systems, engine operation, and equipment diagnostics essential for modern farms and agricultural operations. The program combines mechanical knowledge with agricultural context, preparing graduates for positions at equipment dealers, on farms, or mobile repair services. Georgia's equipment-dependent agriculture creates consistent demand for skilled mechanics. Curriculum covers small and large engine repair, hydraulic systems, electrical troubleshooting, and equipment maintenance. Students learn diagnostic procedures, preventive maintenance schedules, and safety protocols protecting workers and equipment. The pathway emphasizes problem-solving and technical communication. Students understand equipment manuals, technical drawings, and specifications. Field experiences with equipment dealers and farm operations develop practical expertise. Students engage with Georgia's agricultural industry and equipment manufacturers. The pathway prepares graduates for well-paying careers with advancement to shop management or sales. Georgia's agricultural sector and equipment-dependent operations provide abundant employment and advancement opportunities.
Agriculture, Food & Natural ResourcesHorticulture Mechanical Systems
This dual-focus pathway combines horticulture knowledge with mechanical systems expertise, preparing students for careers managing equipment and facilities in nurseries, greenhouses, and landscape operations throughout Georgia. Students learn plant production systems alongside equipment operation, maintenance, and repair. The program addresses the increasing mechanization of horticulture and the need for professionals understanding both growing systems and the equipment that supports them. Georgia's nursery and landscape industry relies on technicians with combined horticulture and mechanical skills. Curriculum covers greenhouse climate control systems, irrigation equipment, landscape machinery, and facility infrastructure. Students learn preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of horticultural equipment. The pathway integrates plant science with practical mechanics. Students understand precision technology applications in horticulture, including automated systems and sensor technologies. Field experiences with nurseries and landscape companies develop expertise in both growing operations and equipment management. Georgia's major nursery and landscape industry provides abundant employment opportunities and authentic learning experiences.
Agriculture, Food & Natural ResourcesLandscape Management Systems
This pathway prepares students for careers managing landscape operations throughout Georgia's urban and suburban areas. Students study landscape design principles, plant selection and installation, maintenance operations, and business management for landscape companies. The program addresses growing demand from property owners seeking professional landscape services in metropolitan Atlanta, Savannah, Augusta, and surrounding communities. Students develop expertise in landscape design software, equipment operation, and crew management. Curriculum covers landscape plant knowledge, design principles, installation techniques, and maintenance practices. Students learn equipment operation for mowing, trimming, and hardscape construction. The pathway emphasizes customer service, scheduling, and financial management essential for landscape company success. Students understand plant selection for Georgia's climate zones and regional preferences. Field experiences with established landscape companies develop practical expertise in design and operations. Students engage with Georgia's landscape and nursery industry professionals. Georgia's expanding urban and suburban areas provide abundant landscape service opportunities and employment growth.
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