Next Generation Knowledge

As the average age of the U.S. farmer continues to rise, young producers are stepping up as decision makers to help feed a booming global population. This was evident as over 80 producers and guests gathered in Manhattan, Kansas, for MKC’s seventh annual Emerging Producers Program. The event is designed for producers ages 22-40 and provides opportunities for attendees to learn from industry professionals, network with other producers and gain knowledge on new technologies to better their operations.

“We created the Emerging Producer Program to provide the next generation of farmers a place to learn and network with other individuals who are facing the same challenges,” says Kent Nichols, MKC agronomy field sales manager. “These times of tremendous opportunity and risk in agriculture make it paramount for farm operations and families to network together and plan for future success.”

During the two-day program, MKC employees helped facilitate a learning environment by actively engaging with producers and presenters and participating in table-group discussions. The first day included presentations by Brett Bruggeman, Winfield United president; Melissa Hildebrand-Reed, Hildebrand Dairy Farms operations manager; and Matt Roberts, founder of the Kernmantle Group. From these experts, attendees learned about digital engagement, marketing the farm, and the agricultural economy. Following the presentations, producers and guests enjoyed a social hour, steak dinner and entertainment by agricultural comedian Tim Moffett.

Chris Thompson, MKC strategic account manager, Brian Briggeman, director of the Arthur Capper Cooperative Center, and Zach Vavak, regional digital technology manager for Winfield United, presented on the second day. The topics covered include cover crops and soil health, the cooperative model, and the Winfield United Atlas portal omni-channel solution.

The program concluded with an inside look from the President’s bunker during 9/11 from Lt. Col. Robert J. Darling.

“Over the past seven years we have received feedback that this program has helped young producers build relationships with others outside their area and provide a broader network for them to share ideas with,” Nichols says. “We are excited to continue growing this program to fit the needs of our emerging producers.”