In the ever-evolving landscape of agriculture, precision farming stands out as a beacon of efficiency and innovation, particularly during economically challenging times. The upcoming Precision Farming Dealer Summit, set to take place in St. Louis in early 2026, promises to be a pivotal event for dealers and farmers alike, offering invaluable insights and networking opportunities that can drive success amidst tightening budgets and market pressures.
The summit’s significance is underscored by industry leaders like Skip Klinefelter, CEO of Ag Technology Solutions Group and PFD’s 2025 Most Valuable Dealer. Klinefelter emphasizes that events like these become even more crucial during economic downturns. “It puts a higher value on it than normal,” he notes, highlighting the unique opportunity to find solutions and share knowledge with peers facing similar challenges. This collaborative spirit is at the heart of the summit, where dealers from diverse brands and markets come together to exchange ideas and strategies.
Precision agriculture’s ability to thrive in tough economic conditions will be a central theme of the summit. Adam Gittins, president of HTS Ag and PFD’s 2024 Most Valuable Dealer, will kick off the event with a presentation on innovative approaches to customer acquisition and revenue generation. His insights into cost management in challenging times are particularly relevant as the industry grapples with rising input costs, labor shortages, and fluctuating commodity prices.
The summit’s agenda is packed with thought-provoking sessions designed to address the most pressing issues in precision agriculture. Attendees can look forward to a panel discussion with major-line manufacturers, a deep dive into sprayer technology trends with Theo Leeb of Horsch Leeb sprayer systems, and an exploration of AI applications in agriculture with Rob Saik, CEO of T1 Technology Corp. Additionally, John Fulton, a professor at Ohio State University and former president of the International Society of Precision Agriculture, will provide guidance on preparing for the future of autonomy in farming.
Networking is a cornerstone of the Precision Farming Dealer Summit, offering attendees the chance to connect with industry professionals and learn from their experiences. Previous attendees have praised the event for its ability to foster collaboration and innovation. Tony Kramer of RDO Equipment highlights the value of connecting with industry professionals and adopting new practices, while Jeremy Bullington of Greenway Equipment appreciates the summit as a source of new ideas and a team-building opportunity. Abby Weltzien of Swiderski Equipment emphasizes the wealth of knowledge available, and Jason Leary of Crystal Valley Co-op notes the importance of working together to overcome industry challenges.
The dealer-to-dealer roundtable discussions are a particular highlight, as noted by Wade Black of Ritchie Implement. These sessions provide a platform for dealers to share their unique successes and learn from one another. Clint Powell of Ramsey Bros. underscores the summit’s role as a valuable resource for networking with dealers and independents across the industry.
As the agricultural sector navigates economic uncertainties, the Precision Farming Dealer Summit offers a timely and essential platform for dealers and farmers to gain new perspectives, forge meaningful connections, and equip themselves with the tools needed to thrive in an ever-changing landscape. With its comprehensive program and collaborative environment, the summit is poised to deliver significant returns on investment for attendees, making it a must-attend event for those committed to advancing precision agriculture.