Tractor and Field Operation Course Overview

Wednesdays, April 22 - May 13

This comprehensive four-week course is designed for new tractor operators and those seeking a refresher on safe and effective tractor operation. Throughout the course, participants will engage in practical, real-world experiences to build skill and confidence. Students will practice setting up and calibrating tractor implements, develop hands-on tractor operation skills across multiple tractors, and gain experience operating a BCS two-wheel tractor.

When: Wednesdays, April 22 - May 13
Time: 5-8pm
Where: Center for Land-Based Learning, 40140 Best Ranch Rd, Woodland, CA
Price: $270
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Course Content

  • Introduction to Tractors and Safety Protocols
  • Setting Up the Tractor and Implements
  • Tractor Operations
  • Tractors in the Field: Calibration and Best Practices

    • About the Instructor

    Jim Rumsey started driving tractors on the family’s farm when he was 11 years old. Seventy years later he is still driving tractors and teaching others to do the same.

    He is an Agricultural Engineer by education and studied at UC Davis, the University of Arizona and the University of Florida. His concentration at these institutions was in farm machinery development, operation and management.

    During his career in private industry, he was involved in monitoring efficient and proper use of farm machinery including vegetable harvesters and tree shakers. As an independent agricultural consultant, he was involved in establishing processing tomato farming operations in Ohio and in Argentina. He made recommendations for acquisition of farm machinery for those operations. When returning to his family farm he personally performed all machinery operations involved in growing walnuts. This included all cultural practices such as spraying, mowing, and harvesting. At UC Davis he taught the famous “tractor driving class” and personally instructed over 4,000 students in safe, proper and efficient tractor and field equipment operation.

    Supporting Women in Agriculture

    Thanks to the generous support of the Les Dames d’Escoffier International, Sacramento Chapter, we have been awarded a $5,000 Philanthropic Grant to support women in agriculture.

    This funding allows us to offer each qualifying student a 50% scholarship towards one California Farm Academy course, helping reduce financial barriers to hands-on agricultural education.

    This scholarship opportunity is designed for women who:
  • Are at any stage of their agricultural journey, from early exploration to established practice
  • Are interested in hands-on, experiential learning in agriculture
  • Are ready to take a next step toward shaping their path in farming, food systems, or land stewardship
    • Scholarship Application