History of the IAT

2019-IAT-anniversary-coin-FINAL The Institute of Agricultural Technology has its roots in the dairy management short course that started at State Agricultural College in 1894.

IAT celebrated 125 years of workforce development in Michigan in 2019.

The short course programs were ways to introduce working farmers in the state to new educational opportunities.

Short courses were established to address agricultural needs in Michigan and were offered in fall and winter between the harvesting and planting seasons.

Ongoing Growth

Over the years, the IAT has experienced steady growth in student enrollment across its certificate programs and locations.

328 students in fall 2021
367 students in fall 2020
473 students in fall 2019
494 students in fall 2018
474 students in fall 2017
427 students in fall 2016
352 students in fall 2015

IAT Timeline

1894

Clinton D. Smith launched and taught the first short course at State Agricultural College in dairy management with 23 students.

1896

Other short courses were added including livestock husbandry, fruit culture and floriculture and winter vegetable growing. Each student spent three hours a week working in a campus farm or garden.

1903

Programs included livestock and general farming, creamery management and butter making, dairy husbandry, fruit culture, cheese making and beet sugar production.

1918

A two-week course in farm tractors is offered for the first time.

1923

Four-year courses are offered for the first time to high school graduates. Programs included agriculture, engineering, home economics, veterinary medicine and applied science.