Brett Oetken

Brett Oetken is a dedicated educator with over three decades of experience in agriculture education. He holds a Master of Science in Agriculture Education (2000) and dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Agriculture Education and Agriculture Business (1984) from Iowa State University. His master's degree focused on distance and online education, reflecting his commitment to adapting educational practices to evolving technologies.

Brett's career includes a range of teaching roles, from full-time and part-time Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Instructor at Western Iowa Tech Community College (WITCC) since 2015, to teaching agriculture at Le Mars Community Schools for nearly two decades (1991-2018). He also served as an instructor in Sidney and New Hampton schools early in his career.

In addition to his academic background, Brett holds certifications in drone operation (FAA Trust certificate) and classroom management, with specialized training in Boys Town student behavior management. He’s also trained in APL (Advanced Professional Learning) for effective classroom strategies.

Brett’s contributions to agricultural education have been recognized through several awards, including being a nominee for the District Golden Owl Award in 2020 and earning the Star District Advisor Award from the Iowa Association of Agricultural Educators (IAAE) in 2018. His commitment to FFA and agriculture education was further honored with an Honorary Iowa FFA Degree in 2004.

Passionate about teaching and dedicated to fostering the next generation of agricultural professionals, Brett continues to make an impact at Western Iowa Tech and beyond.