As the ag industry trends toward broader integration of equipment automation and machine learning, companies are looking for skilled talent to lead the evolution. While traditional avenues for recruiting and retention of tech-savvy talent still produce quality hires, a broader search can attract and develop an alternative pipeline of talent.

One of the most talked-about sessions looked at creating a culture of advancement and growth within a precision dealership. Skip Klinefelter, owner of Linco-Precision in El Paso, Ill., noted during his opening general session that success and survival of precision dealers will require continuous collaboration and internal problem-solving — both of which are cornerstones of stability.

As dealers turn their attention to the new year, 2019 looks to be a relatively strong one for precision sales. According to Ag Equipment Intelligence's 2019 Dealer Business Outlook & Trends report, some 40% of North American dealers cited precision farming products as their best bet for improving unit sales this year.

Equipment automation, drone-based nutrient application and hybrid or electric machinery are among the innovations which are trending toward broader application, perhaps as soon as 2025, according to results of a recent study conducted by consulting company Roland Berger.

The manufacturing models of the farm equipment and automotive industries are intertwined, with innovations developed for consumer vehicles often finding their way into the production of ag machinery.

Learning from early experience selling and supporting the recurring revenue program, Devin Dubois, vice president of Integrated Solutions with Western Sales, recently helped expand the dealership’s precision platform to include independent precision software support for 6 other dealer groups in the region.

Last week, CNH and Farmers Edge, a Canadian-based decision ag developer, announced an exclusive strategic partnership to expand data management and agronomic solutions for Case IH and New Holland dealers. The agreement gives dealers access to the Farmers Edge FarmCommand platform.

As ag technology evolves to include more machine learning and automated functions, the threat of data theft and other cyber crimes is increasing.

Finding and retaining precision farming talent has long been a challenge for equipment dealers, as many look to expand or evolve the scope of their business. While recent years have seen a slowdown in hiring plans, dealers are planning to be more aggressive in adding precision specialists during the coming year.

As many farmers prepare for the heat of harvest, several dealers spent the summer providing customers with opportunities to track crop growth on a smaller scale.