Farmers view technology, economics, equipment, and agronomics as interconnected, not separate topics,” said Jenny Carleo, North Carolina State University Extension Area Specialized Agent. “Understanding their perspective helps us build relationships and serve them better.”
Despite their strong agronomic knowledge, many Extension agents struggle to stay updated on rapidly advancing farm technologies.
To address this, NC State Extension partnered with Quality Equipment and Farm Credit to host an agricultural technology training event in Polkton, North Carolina. The day-long session aimed to familiarize agents with both current tools and emerging innovations.
Carleo says the event was inspired by a conversation with John Hoffner, a tech-savvy NC farmer she met far from home.
“Last year, I met John Hoffner of Talley Farms at the national collaborative ‘Think Tank’ event in Indiana hosted by the US Soybean Research Collaborative. John works closely with John Deere as an on-farm equipment tester and had some insightful perspective on what Extension agents need to know. He was the key to this kickoff.”
Training Highlights
Agents explored John Deere’s “Operations Center,” a free platform enabling farmers to collect, analyze, and share farm data. The system supports record-keeping, compliance, planning, and agronomic decisions. Agents learned how to set up their own accounts, opening opportunities for farmers to share data for on-farm trials and advising.
Sydney Jalali, an agent from Edgecombe County, saw immediate value in the platform.
“This tool allows producers to share farm data and research trial data, track results, and compare outcomes over multiple years. Setting up an account is one of my first steps back home.”
Additional sessions covered the mechanics of data capture on planters, sprayers, and combines, alongside discussions about autonomous equipment on the horizon. Hands-on field demonstrations allowed agents to inspect tools like real-time grain quality cameras and precision seeding technologies.
While some technology may seem new, Quality Equipment’s Stephen Swain says much of it is already in growers’ fields.
“In our area, nine out of ten new John Deere combines are now sold with Combine Advisor, allowing an operator to maintain performance regardless of changing crop conditions. Additionally, eight out of ten new planters are electric drive, allowing for more precise seeding rates at varying speeds and conditions.”
Addressing Financial Barriers
Recognizing the steep costs of new equipment, AgSouth Farm Credit provided insights into lease and loan options. Real-world examples helped agents guide growers in balancing efficiency with profitability.
“All this technology comes with a hefty price tag,” said Moore County agent Liz Joseph. “Hearing about financial strategies to make it more accessible was helpful.”
Industry Partnerships
The event was a collaboration of industry representatives and three Extension representatives, Jenny Carleo, Morgan Menaker and Blake Szilvay, dedicated to advancing agricultural efficiency.
Matthew Tomberlin of Quality Equipment emphasized the importance of equipping agents with firsthand knowledge.
“Our goal is to work with extension and growers to draw awareness to data and technology that is within their reach. We’re here to help them improve their operations using data and tech in meaningful ways.”
Agent Takeaways
Many agents attended to expand their technical toolkits. Greene County agent Hannah Howe shared her motivation.
“Producers rely on us for answers. Staying ahead in technology ensures we provide effective support and fresh ideas.”
Caldwell County’s Seth Nagy acknowledged challenges for smaller farms but saw opportunities for customization.
“John Deere can do more than Caldwell County can afford,” Nagy joked. “But seriously, there are options for almost every producer. It’s about finding what works affordably.”
Looking Ahead
This event marked the first in a three-part series on agricultural technology. The concept’s success has already led to plans for similar trainings in eastern North Carolina.
“It’s critical for Extension to stay current on agricultural technology,” said Randolph County agent Blake Szilvay, co-organizer of the event. “Producers count on us for unbiased information. Knowing the marketplace and how to apply it keeps us relevant.”
Crop and Soil Sciences Geographic Information Specialist Dr. Rob Austin added, “Manufacturers are the experts on their technology, but Extension can play a key role in helping farmers understand the value in their data and how best to utilize that data to make sound decisions.”
Agents can explore future sessions through Extension’s professional development system or by joining the Agronomic Crops Program team led by Rachel Vann.
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