New MSU Institute of Agricultural Technology Program Coordinator Named at Bay College

News

Tyler Sisson, Program Coordinator

Tyler Sisson was named program coordinator for the forest technology and agricultural operations programs at Bay College in Escanaba, Michigan, as part of the Michigan State University Institute of Agricultural Technology (MSU IAT) partnership.  Through the MSU IAT partnership, students can attend Bay College and earn an applied associate’s degree in forest technology or agricultural operations while also earning a Michigan State University (MSU) certificate.  These courses and credits can also transfer to a bachelor’s degree at MSU.

The MSU IAT collaboration provides education and training for Escanaba and the surrounding areas through face-to-face, online, hybrid, and in-the-field instruction.  Bay College is located 15 minutes from the MSU Forest Biomass Innovation Center and 45 minutes from the Upper Peninsula Research and Extension Center, both of which provide rich experiences for students to learn outside of the classroom and network with leading professionals, according to Sisson.

“This partnership provides a platform for students to take a hands-on-approach through various in-state and out-of-state internships, which in-turn can help students land exciting jobs in forestry or agriculture,” said Sisson.  “Students usually want to know potential salaries, lifestyle, and places they can work.  Competitive job placement is a primary life goal for students who complete these programs.  The forest technology program offers opportunities to become a forest technician, procurement forester, consulting forester, wildland firefighter, geographic information system aide, or a land surveying aide.  Additionally, the agriculture operations program offers opportunities in equipment retail sales, farming operations, crop production management, production services, and crop processing facilities.”

The MSU IAT expansion into the Upper Peninsula continues to support workforce development in Michigan, and MSU’s land-grant roots of reaching people with practical education further strengthens the agricultural mindset for business-driven individuals.

Sisson brings to MSU IAT a set of real-world skills and a student-centered approach to program management.  He is a military veteran with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Regent University.  Through the Michigan College Access Network initiative, Sisson has worked in higher education with Bay College since December of 2020.  His primary roles as a college success coach and holistic advisor has helped students overcome barriers and complete credentials within the liberal arts and allied health pathways.

To learn more about the MSU IAT programs, email Tyler Sisson.  Interested students must dual apply to Bay College and MSU IAT by August 15 for the MSU IAT fall semester.

Bay College is devoted to your success in the classroom, on-campus, online, in the community and into the workforce. We’re proud to offer certificates and programs that result in successful careers, associate degrees and credits that transfer to universities, and workforce training to sharpen your skills and advance your career. #BayIsTheWay