Agronomy e-Learning Academy student reaps more than knowledge from innovative program

After spending a lifetime working in farming communities, Jason Pigg knew time, patience and hard work produced the best results.  But two years at his first full-time job taught him another lesson: there was a lot more to learn. 

“I grew up around agriculture,” Pigg said. “My family raised livestock and I worked for farmers throughout high school. I interned at Hubner Industries following my first year at Franklin, and I made the connection with the company through that internship. I have been here ever since.” 

Pigg joined Hubner, an Indiana-based seed-producing company, as a seed production associate after graduating from Franklin College in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in biology. As his responsibilities grew, Pigg realized that his skill set needed to grow, too. 

“I wanted to get a specialized education in agronomy since that’s now what I’m working in,” Pigg said. “I just wanted to continue learning and to better myself.” 

That’s when Pigg enrolled in Purdue University’s Agronomy e-Learning Academy, an online program offered by Purdue’s College of Agriculture. The self-paced program allowed him to complete the Crop Professional Certificate around two harvest seasons, the busiest time of the year for his company.  

The Crop Professional Certificate is a three-course program designed for the agriculture professional. Courses include Agronomy Essentials, Nutrient Management and Digital Agriculture. The program covers topics ranging from responsible land management to the use of technology to increase yields and improve soil and crop  management. The courses are taught by Purdue faculty and additional subject matter experts from around the country. 

Purdue has a very well-known ag program, and they have a great online platform, so it was the best of both worlds for me. By taking online classes, I could work full time as well as get an ag education.

Jason Pigg, Purdue University Agronomy E-Learning Academy Student
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Pigg’s employer, Hubner Industries President Doug Hubner, agreed. 

“Additional education is critical in our field,” Hubner said. “With constant change in weather, genetics and cultural practices, we have to make sure that we stay humble and hungry, to always be learning. It was easy to invest in Jason and this program to help him grow and, in turn, help our organization grow. 

“The e-learning program is a great way for professionals to continue to stay sharp and learn from the best in the field.” 

Pigg took two of the program’s three courses before the 2024 harvest season. He continued the program the next spring and worked hard to complete his last course before the 2025 harvest was ready. He earned his certificate a few weeks earlier than expected. 

“It was all self-led, work-at-your-own-pace, so I was able to finish some lectures early, take the quizzes and get done earlier,” Pigg said. “It’s flexible. You can really — if you put in the time and effort — get it done in a relatively manageable time span. I’d say it’s a great option for people that are already working full-time but want to continue their education.” 

While not new to the agricultural industry, Pigg said working at Hubner showed him there was much more to the field. His classes offered insights that he shares at work and allowed him to fill in knowledge gaps from others in the industry. 

“Some of it was just sharpening up on things I already knew and refreshers. Some of it was new information, new voices, new ideas. Since I’m already in a role, I’m utilizing some of that information to make sure I’m doing things correctly and to make sure I have the latest information.” 

Pigg’s goal is to use his knowledge to become a stronger asset to Hubner and eventually earn a management role. He said completing the certificate while balancing work and personal responsibilities boosted his confidence. 

“It was kind of daunting, starting this program, not knowing — since I’m already working full time — what the time allocation would be or how that would pan out. Seeing that it is possible, I am hoping to complete more certifications like this in the future now that I know that I can allocate the time and manage my time well. 

“I would tell anyone considering it to go for it. It can be done.” 

While the basics of farming may be the same, the field of agronomy is evolving, thanks to new technology and developments. The Crop Professional Certificate is designed to equip working professionals with innovative ways to manage pests, diagnose soil and plant problems, explore the use of nutrients and utilize technology. To learn more about Purdue’s crop professional certificate, visit the program’s webpage.