System and method for controlling work machine

A method for controlling a work machine, the method comprising

• using a machine position sensor that outputs current position data indicative of a position of the work machine and a controller that is operatively coupled to the machine position sensor and programmed to control the work machine to execute the steps of:
• acquiring current position data indicative of a position of the work machine;
• acquiring topography data including a position of a first slot extending in a work direction, a position of a second slot positioned beside the first slot and extending in the work direction, and a position of a first excavation wall positioned between the first slot and the second slot and extending in the work direction, the first slot, the second slot, and the first excavation wall being disposed adjacent one another in a transverse direction that intersects the work direction;
• determining a first excavation path extending from the first slot to a first position on the second slot, and cutting across the first excavation wall;
• determining a transportation path extending from a position behind the first position in the work direction, along the second slot, and toward a soil unloading position;
• controlling the work machine to move in accordance with the first excavation path to excavate the first excavation wall and form a pile of soil in the second slot;
• and
• control the work machine to move in accordance with the transportation path to transport the pile of soil to the soil unloading position.