Power, Structural, & Technical Systems in Virginia
Virginia's Power, Structural, & Technical Systems pathway combines agricultural engineering with mechanical systems training, preparing students for careers maintaining and operating complex farm equipment and structures. This pathway addresses the technical infrastructure supporting Virginia's modern agricultural operations.
Students study farm equipment operation and maintenance, hydraulic systems, structural design and construction, electrical systems, and agricultural mechanics. They work on equipment repair, farm building projects, and mechanical troubleshooting through hands-on lab experiences and field work.
Graduates work as agricultural equipment technicians, farm machinery mechanics, agricultural engineers, or maintain farm facilities and infrastructure. Virginia's agricultural operations require skilled technicians. Advanced students pursue engineering programs at Virginia Tech.
Power, Structural, & Technical Systems at a Glance
4
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Virginia's power and structural systems standards address agricultural engineering competencies, emphasizing equipment safety, maintenance procedures, and structural soundness. Standards align with equipment manufacturer specifications and agricultural building codes.
Students demonstrate competency through equipment maintenance projects, structural design assessments, and diagnostic problem-solving. The state integrates safety certifications required for equipment operation.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course |
|---|
| Agricultural Mechanics Foundations |
| Farm Equipment and Maintenance |
| Agricultural Hydraulics and Systems |
| Farm Structures and Construction |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓Certified Landscape Technician
- ✓OSHA 10-Hour General Industry
- ✓First Aid/CPR/AED
- ✓NOCTI Agriculture Mechanics
- ✓NOCTI Agricultural Production
- ✓ServSafe Food Handler
- ✓ServSafe Manager
- ✓Certified Veterinary Assistant
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.
Farm Equipment Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $38,190 - $59,580
Agricultural Machinery Mechanic
ExperiencedSalary range: $62,760 - $94,450
Farm Facility Manager
Entry LevelSalary range: $38,500 - $61,990
Agricultural Equipment Sales
ExperiencedSalary range: $62,760 - $94,450
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students apprentice at equipment dealerships, farm operations, agricultural contractors, and equipment maintenance facilities throughout Virginia.
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 Virginia CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
Virginia Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with Virginia's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Virginia standards and industry needs evolve
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