The annual tractor and equipment safety training courses will be offered in Gering and Gordon in June. The events are hosted by 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.
“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,” said course instructor Aaron Yoder, PhD, associate professor, UNMC and University of Nebraska- Lincoln. “The 2026 Annual Tractor and Equipment Safety Course provides essential, hands-on training that helps participants recognize hazards, develop safe operating habits, and build confidence when working around powerful machinery.”
Federal law restricts youth under the age of 16 from operating certain farm equipment unless the farm is owned by their parents or legal guardians. However, certification through the National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program (NSTMOP) provides an exemption, allowing 14- and 15-year-olds to operate tractors and certain mechanized equipment.
Course Details:
- Day One: Covers the essential components of NSTMOP, as well as additional training in emergency response, stop-the-bleed techniques, personal protective equipment, and other lifesaving skills.
- Day Two: Hands-on driving test, equipment operation and ATV safety lessons. Instructors will also provide education on safe practices and legal guidelines for ATVs, utility task vehicles (UTVs), and other off-road vehicles (ORVs).
The cost is $60, which covers educational materials, online learning access (if applicable), supplies, and lunch and snacks for in-person training sessions.
- June 1-2 - Legacy of the Plains Museum, 2930 Old Oregon Trail, Gering, Nebraska
- June 3 - Sheridan County Fairgrounds. 613 E. Third St., Gordon, Nebraska
- Virtual Module – For those attending a location that offers only Day One or is 50 miles or more from the host location.
UNMC’s Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health, in collaboration with Nebraska Extension, will oversee the courses.
Youth under the age of 14 can attend Day One if accompanied by an adult, but they are not eligible to drive equipment, participate in Day Two, or receive certification. Students under 14 must register, but they will not be charged a fee. New and beginning farmers who want to increase their knowledge about safe farm practices are encouraged to register and attend.
Contact Ellen Duysen at ellen.duysen@unmc.edu with questions on the courses.
