Technology’s Tuition

Emissions standards, increased productivity, fuel economy, safety, maintenance —
the future of construction equipment rests in the hands of
forward-thinking engineers who can deliver cutting-edge technology. To
stay at the front of the pack, Deere & Co. invested $1 million to
create a John Deere Technology Innovation Center with the University of
Illinois to leverage the skills and knowledge of faculty and students
in the areas of agriculture, business, engineering and information
technology.

“This
investment dovetails perfectly at the University of Illinois with our
140-year history of addressing the most critical needs of society,”
said Chancellor Richard Herman of the University of Illinois.
“Furthermore, it will enhance the knowledge and skills of faculty and
students as we continue to prepare our graduates to compete and succeed
in the global marketplace.”

The
new facility is located in the University Research Park in Champaign,
Ill., and will create an accelerated innovation environment to assist
Deere in utilizing advanced electronics, mechatronics, advanced sensors
and control systems technology.

“This
important effort will extend our industry leading investment in
research and development on behalf of our customers,” said Robert W.
Lane, chairman and CEO of Deere & Co. “Our efforts to apply
innovation in our products and services result in increased
productivity for those who use John Deere equipment.”

Deere
said the new technology innovation center in Champaign will expand its
capabilities to respond to the rapidly changing environment for John
Deere’s customers and businesses through leveraging the capabilities of
the University.

The
center in Champaign will remain a satellite organization to John
Deere’s Moline Technology Innovation Center, which is located on the
campus of the company’s World Headquarters in Moline, Ill. The new
Champaign location will intensify Deere’s efforts to track key
technology developments impacting the company.