Solve tomorrow’s agricultural challenges with an agricultural and biosystems engineering degree

From developing smarter farm machinery to finding more efficient ways to produce food, feed, fiber and fuel, agricultural and biosystems engineers are helping shape the future of agriculture.

At NDSU, students in the agricultural and biosystems engineering (ABEN) program combine engineering, biology and sustainability to develop solutions for some of agriculture’s most pressing challenges.

NDSU's ABEN degree is one of the few programs of its kind in the country. Its versatility allows students to explore areas in agricultural machinery and processing.

“Ag and Biosystems engineering is very important. It feeds the world through agriculture, and so this degree helps us see how we can do that more efficiently, make more food for the world, make more feed for the livestock, do it cheaper, easier and find the best way to get things done in an agricultural sense,” said Bryce Lohman, a senior in the ABEN program.

For Lohman, NDSU’s ABEN program was a major reason why he chose to transfer. Growing up working around agriculture, Lohman has always had a passion for engineering and agriculture, and he appreciates the strong reputation NDSU has for both.

“This degree has gotten me excited about being an engineer, and NDSU has done a lot for me by motivating me and helping me to realize what I want with my career,” said Lohman, who is from Conrad, Montana.

Engineering solutions through hands-on learning

Lohman's focus area is the mechanical side of the degree, especially around farm machinery and hydraulics. Throughout his time in the ABEN program, Lohman has worked on several projects that have taught him how to solve complex problems and work in team settings.

One of those projects is his senior design, which he has been working on with a team of three other students over the course of two semesters. The senior design project is centered on an apple picking machine that can be used in orchards and was designed by prior ABEN students. Lohman and his team are currently working on adding an extension that will be able to spray pesticides.

With the new Richard Offerdahl ‘65 Engineering Complex having opened this semester, Lohman’s group is able to design and work on the machine right on campus.

“We have all the resources we need at NDSU and here in the Offerdahl Complex. We can do everything in-house, and we can get all that built and then tested and get to show it off at the end of the year,” he said.

Learning that takes place beyond the classroom

Lohman has also gained industry experience through an internship with Norwood Sales, a local agricultural machinery manufacturer. Working on farm machinery projects, he has been able to apply concepts from his NDSU courses while learning directly from engineers.

“It’s really cool to be in the industry and see what it's like, talk to other engineers and get their perspective,” Lohman said. “I actually got to use the stuff I learned in my classes.”

Lohman has also found community outside the classroom through student organizations, including Engineering Ambassadors and the rugby club team. These experiences have allowed him to connect with other students, develop leadership and teamwork skills, and make the most of his time at NDSU.

Build a future in agricultural engineering

Whether you’re interested in developing the next generation of farm machinery, improving the way biological materials are processed or finding more sustainable ways to meet the world’s growing needs, an agricultural and biosystems engineering degree can open the door to a wide range of careers.

The job outlook for agricultural engineers is anticipated to grow by 7% through 2035. Among some of the careers you can enter with an ABEN degree are:

• Machinery technician
• Soil conservationist
• Agricultural engineer
• Patent examiner
• Automation engineer

Lohman highly recommends NDSU for the personal and professional support he has received.

“NDSU has prepared me for my future career by helping me to learn to use my resources, be a leader on my own and to be able to ask for help when I need it at the same time. Now I can be confident going into my job, knowing I'm on par with everyone else and that the other technical skills that I've learned here put me above that.”

Shape your future at NDSU by applying today or scheduling a visit to see what NDSU has to offer.

NDSU Marketing and Communications
Source: Bryce Lohman
Writer: Meghan Arbegast
Photos: Justin Eiler