AI Opportunities, Challenges in Focus at Annual Meeting and Conference

Annual Meeting and Conference

AI Opportunities, Challenges in Focus at Annual Meeting and Conference

By Paul Schrimpf, Director of Marketing and Communications

The AgGateway Annual Meeting and Conference, 3-5 November at the Wyndham Grand in Clearwater Beach, FL, will mark the end of a year-long celebration of two decades of dedication to improving digital connectivity and interoperability in agriculture.

“From our early beginnings focused on crop protection, we’ve broadened membership and engagement across every segment of the agriculture industry, expanded globally, and partnered with many like-minded organizations to bring the benefits of connecting our industry to every stakeholder,” says Brent Kemp, AgGateway President and CEO.

In addition to celebrating the 20th anniversary milestone, this year’s conference will feature a completely revamped agenda of educational breakouts and general sessions, with a focus on the impact of artificial intelligence on the industry.

READY TO REGISTER? CLICK HERE.

Helping to lead the discussions will be two individuals with deep background in agriculture and the evolving impact of AI. Tami Craig Shilling, recently retired Bayer Cropscience (and Monsanto prior to the acquisition) with 35 years in the agriculture industry, will share her learnings and perspective on AI having most recently served as Bayer’s Digital Engagement Lead. Joining Tami will be Preston Fay, Manager, Digital and Analytics with consulting firm Kearney. Fay was the builder and founder of Technekes/TKXS, which became one of the industry’s most trusted partners for data-driven sales and marketing execution. He joined TELUS as Global Head of Data Science after its acquisition of TKXS in 2019 and served as a consultant with the Context Network for two years prior to its acquisition by Kearney.

Shilling and Fay will each provide a general session presentation, in addition to helping direct and lead an AI focused track that will run throughout the Conference.

“We are beyond excited to welcome these two industry leaders to the conference,” says Jeremy Wilson, AgGateway Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer and North American Director. “Artificial intelligence is just scratching the surface as far as its impact on the entire agriculture value chain from the farmer to the dinner plate, and Tami and Preston have been on the front lines of this evolving revolution. The discussions we have here will help our organization as we put the final touches on our new five-year plan and provide plenty of take-home information for all our attendees.”

Another exciting addition to the agenda this year will be the Tuesday afternoon “Beer and Bull” session. Jeremy will join Tami and Preston on the main stage to moderate a series of tabletop breakouts on key topics around AI, followed by a full report out and discussion of the learnings. “We are expecting some spirited discussion and talking points that will serve as a perfect lead into the reception that follows,” says Wilson. As the name implies, the bar will be open for this session.

More details on the AI track along with the rest of the high-value agenda will be finalized by mid-September. You can find the most up-to-date version of the agenda using this link. As you consider registering, keep in mind the following key dates:

  • The early bird discount for registration expires on 22 September – Register now and save $100.
  • The hotel room block discount expires on 13 October. Click here to reserve your room.

For additional information or questions about the Annual Meeting and Conference, reach out to Member Services via email.