Tractor and Mower Safety and Operator Skills

​The 4-H tractor and mower safety and operator skills program provides youth with educational information that develops project skills (i.e., principles of engine operation, hydraulic systems, electrical systems, safe operation) and life skills (i.e., decision making, using science and technology, developing communication skills). These fun-filled, hands-on learning experiences are provided under the direction of caring adults.

​Junior division is for youth in grades 3-7 and senior division is for youth in grades 8-12​.​

College Majors

  • Agricultural Engineering
  • Agricultural Systems Management
  • Farm Management
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Landscape Architecture
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Selling and Sales Management
  • Turf Science and Management

Careers

  • Agriculture
  • Engineering and Technologies
  • Manufacturing and Processing
  • Sales

Project Resources

Tractor

The 2025 tractor operator skills area and state contests will include the parts identification and obstacle course practicums only. The quiz/exam practicum will not be part of the 2025 contests. Some area contests may be asked to pilot a pre-trip inspection component, but it will not be scored as part of the contest.

Lawn and Garden Tractor/Zero-Turn Mower

The 2024 lawn and garden tractor/zero-turn mower operator skills area and state contests will include the parts identification and obstacle course practicums only. The quiz/exam practicum will not be part of the 2024 contests.

Tractor

Lawn and Garden Tractor

Zero-Turn Mower

The 2024 tractor/lawn and garden tractor/zero-turn mower operator skills area and state contests will include the parts identification and obstacle course practicums only. The quiz/exam practicum will not be part of the 2024 contests. Some area tractor contests may be asked to pilot a pre-trip inspection component, but it will not be scored as part of the contest.

Videos are for educational purposes and are meant to demonstrate how a 4-H member should maneuver through the course.

Animated Course Outlines