AKRS Equipment in O'Neill to Host Tractor/Equipment Training For Young and Beginning Farmers

Sign up now for the annual safety course from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and Nebraska Extension

Apr. 16, 2026 at 2:37am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in warm, earthy tones depicting a farmer's hands working the controls of a tractor in a hazy field, conceptually representing the hands-on training for safe equipment operation.The annual tractor and equipment safety training course provides essential hands-on learning to help young and beginning farmers develop safe operating habits.O'Neill Today

The Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health (CS-CASH) at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Public Health, in partnership with Nebraska Extension, is offering its annual tractor and equipment safety training courses at 12 locations across Nebraska in May and June. The two-day course provides essential, hands-on training to help young and beginning farmers recognize hazards, develop safe operating habits, and build confidence when working around powerful machinery.

Why it matters

Tractors and agricultural equipment remain leading sources of serious injury and fatalities in farming, especially for those still gaining experience. This training helps ensure the next generation of farmers can operate equipment safely and legally.

The details

The training covers essential components of the National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program (NSTMOP), including a written test and driving exam. Students will also learn emergency response, personal protective equipment, and safe practices for ATVs, UTVs, and other off-road vehicles. Federal law restricts youth under 16 from operating certain farm equipment, but the NSTMOP certification provides an exemption for 14- and 15-year-olds.

  • The two-day course will be held on June 4-5 at AKRS Equipment in O'Neill, Nebraska.
  • Additional training sessions are scheduled at 11 other locations across Nebraska in May and June.

The players

Aaron Yoder, PhD

Associate professor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and course instructor.

Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health (CS-CASH)

A partnership between the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Public Health and Nebraska Extension that provides the annual tractor and equipment safety training.

Nebraska Extension

A partner organization with CS-CASH that helps offer the NSTMOP certification program in Nebraska.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Tractors and agricultural equipment remain leading sources of serious injury and fatalities in farming, especially for young and beginning producers who are still gaining experience.”

— Aaron Yoder, Associate professor, UNMC and University of Nebraska-Lincoln

What’s next

To get more information and to register for the training, visit the CS-CASH website at https://www.unmc.edu/publichealth/cscash/outreach/farm-safety-days.html.

The takeaway

This annual tractor and equipment safety training is an essential program that helps ensure the next generation of farmers in Nebraska can operate powerful machinery safely and legally, reducing the risk of serious injury or fatalities.