GCCC Celebrates Success of Pilot Course with NASA Acres
[Garden City, KS] December 15, 2025 -- Garden City Community College (GCCC) is proud to announce the successful completion of its Technology in Agriculture (AGRO-111) course, offered in Fall 2025. Developed in collaboration with NASA Acres and Kansas State University, the pilot course provided students with hands-on experience with modern agricultural technology, including satellite data and geospatial analysis.
The course, led by Elisa Mai, GCCC Assistant Professor of Crop Production Technology, introduced students to practical applications of Earth observation tools and decision-making technologies that support modern crop production.
“It was inspiring to see students from diverse backgrounds engage with NASA Acres tools and understand how technology is transforming agriculture,” said Mai. “The skills they gained, from interpreting NASA satellite observations to monitor crop health to using STELLA instruments for field analysis, prepare them for real-world careers in agriculture and related fields. Every acre of crop counts more than ever, and making informed decisions is critical to farming success.”
Students applied classroom concepts during field visits across Southwest Kansas, using STELLA (Science and Technology Education for Land/Life Assessment) handheld spectrometers to measure plant reflectance and compare field data with satellite imagery. The combination of hands-on exercises, step-by-step instruction, and guest speakers gave students a comprehensive understanding of modern agricultural practices.
Student feedback in the course was overwhelmingly positive, with many reporting that the course strengthened their resumes, opened doors to internships, and provided valuable experience with technology that is increasingly critical in agriculture.
Building on this success, GCCC plans to continue offering AGRO-111 in future semesters and is exploring opportunities to integrate the course curriculum and tools into other college programs. GCCC looks forward to continuing its collaboration with NASA Acres to provide students with cutting-edge skills that meet the evolving demands of the agricultural industry.
For more information or questions about this course, please contact Elisa Mai at elisa.mai@gcccks.edu or 620-276-9507.
About NASA Acres
NASA Acres applies satellite data solutions to address some of the most pressing challenges in U.S. agriculture. By connecting space-based science with on-the-ground decisions, the program empowers farmers, ranchers, and agri-food leaders to build more sustainable and resilient agricultural systems. Learn more about NASA Acres at: https://www.nasaacres.org.
Garden City Community College students gather data in an irrigated Kansas corn field during the Fall 2025 Technology in Agriculture (AGRO-111) course.
--
Garden City Community College exists to produce positive contributors to the economic and social well-being of society.