Ag Engage Conference

Everyone is invited to Join us for the 2026 Ag Engage Conference at the Monroe Convention Center in Bloomington, Indiana!

February 19, 2026 

Registration check-in STarts 8:30 a.m Eastern
Program 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Eastern 

Monroe Convention Center

302 S College Ave, Bloomington, IN 47403


Price $125 Early-Bird, $135 after Jan. 22nd
Registration Deadline: February 6th 

Registration Information Coming Soon

The Purdue EDGE in Ag Team is excited to offer this annual event designed to educate and uplift everyone involved in any aspect of the agricultural industry. Through pre-conference workshops, a keynote speaker, and breakout presentations, attendees will learn how to better manage risk, enhance their farms and agribusiness operations, and network with others throughout Indiana. The Ag Engage Conference is open to participation by all. Keynote speaker and breakout session information is listed below.  

On February 18, 2026, the Purdue EDGE in Ag Team will be offering two pre-conference sessions and the Emerging Ag Leaders Conference.  Information about the pre-conference sessions can be found below. 

Keynote Presentation 

zoe kent

 Zoe Kent standing in a soybean field wearing jeans and a blue t-shirt
Zoe Kent is an 8th-generation grain farmer in Ohio who has transformed her passion for agriculture into a successful venture. After earning her agribusiness degree from The Ohio State University, she returned to the family farm to work alongside her father, Mickey. Following his retirement at the end of 2021, Zoe took the reins and now manages all operations at Kent Family Farms. Through her engaging social media presence @farmwithzoe, she shares informative, family-friendly farming videos. With a community of half a million followers, Zoe connects with fellow agricultural enthusiasts and promotes a positive message about farming to consumers.

Breakout Session #1 Options

Dr. Laura Montenovo, Assistant Professor in the Purdue University Department of Agricultural Economics, will show a broad picture of the evolution of labor market outcomes, both farm and non-farm, in Indiana and the Midwest. She will show how such trends are linked to caring stress, as measured by the gap in supply and demand of childcare and seniority care, and some key health outcomes.

Dr. Tommy Butts, Clinical Assistant Professor, Purdue Extension Weed Scientist, will explore the fundamentals of herbicide resistance, concerns in Indiana, and how we can better manage it. Additionally, tools such as the Weed Control Guide and the Take Action Herbicide Classification Chart will be discussed on how they can be used to more effectively make herbicide selection decisions.

Managing livestock on pasture comes with unique challenges—and opportunities. In this session, learn about the wide range of technical and financial assistance available through the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). From cost-share programs for fencing and water systems to conservation planning and soil health support, NRCS offers tools to help you enhance your operation’s sustainability and efficiency. Join us to find out how to tap into these valuable services.  This presentation will be given by Robert Zupancic, is the NRCS Southeast Area Grazing Specialist. 

Get an inside look at how agricultural policy really works—beyond the headlines and political talking points. This session will explore key issues such as biofuels, trade and market access, regulations, and the Farm Bill, breaking down why they matter, their impacts on farmers, consumers, and communities, and where things stand today. Learn how agricultural organizations are engaging with communities, leaders, and officials through both policy efforts and checkoff programs. This session will be presented by Emily McNiff,  Industry Affairs Project Manager with Indiana Soybean Alliance, Indiana Corn Growers Association and Indiana Corm Marketing Council. 

Breakout Session #2 Options

Jessica Thurman, Purdue Extension Ag & Natural Resource Educator in Grant County, will provide an overview of the significance of micronutrients, nutrient availability, deficiency conditions, plant uptake timing, and application methods.

Sweat equity arises when an on-farm heir is paid less than their true opportunity cost to work for the business, and/or in situations where the business has grown substantially in value due to the managerial ability and efforts of the on-farm heir. Michael Langemeier, Professor of Agricultural Economics, Purdue University, will discuss where sweat equity fits when a farm is adding an individual to the farm.

 

This session is designed to help farm participants enhance their understanding of how childcare intersects with farm risk management and family quality of life. Throughout this session, you will become more aware of various childcare options, including strategies for integrating childcare costs into your farm or household budget. You will also learn about valuable resources for weaving childcare into your overall farm plan. While you don’t need to be a childcare expert, your goal is to understand how these issues impact farmers and to equip them with the tools and resources needed to make informed decisions for their families and operations. This will be presented by Beth Vansickle, Purdue Extension Ag & Natural Resources Educator in Madison County  & Brieanna Slonaker, Purudue Extension  Ag & Natural Resources Educator in Marshall County. 

 

Whether you're launching your first farm, partnering with family, or stepping into a new leadership role unexpectedly, this session is designed to meet you where you are. Led by women with firsthand farming and merchandising experience, we’ll explore practical strategies to help you build confidence in grain marketing.  Join Christine Pool, Commodity Manager, POET Shelbyville and Shirley Matlock, Grain Merchandiser, POET Shelbyville for this educational grain marketing session. 

Breakout Session #3 Options

Farm families often find themselves at an impasse when a difficult situation arises. Even with the family and the farm being so integrated, having difficult conversations can have implications for both the family and the farm. During this presentation, Renee Wiatt, Purdue Extension Research and Extension Specialist, will cover how and when to have difficult conversations, how to navigate family meetings, and more.  

 

 

Join Nicole Larkey, Finanical Officer, Farm Credit Mid-America and Emily Adkisson, Account Specialist, Farm Credit Mid America, for a comprehensive exploration of farm financials, where they will break down key metrics, uncover trends, and identify opportunities to strengthen financial performance. Whether you're new to Ag finance or looking to refine your strategy, this deep dive will equip you with tools and understanding to navigate the financial landscape of agriculture.

 

Join Ann Kline, Purdue Extension Ag & Natural Resources Educator in Noble County, for an overview of pesticide application focusing on both best practices to reduce risk as well as an understanding of licensing requirements. Attendees will learn what licenses are available, the steps to obtain licensing in Indiana, and the importance of following the label. Practical tips to reduce the risks of pesticides will be shared so ag women can confidently manage pest control while protecting their farms and communities.

 

Farm women are the backbone of agriculture, juggling farm responsibilities, family needs, community commitments, and often off-farm jobs. Yet the pressure to “do it all” can leave women feeling exhausted and unseen. This lighthearted and empowering session shines a spotlight on the strength of farm women while also acknowledging the stress and struggles that often go unspoken. Through humor, relatable stories, and simple stress-busting strategies, Angela Sorg, LMHC, PMH-C, EMDRPT-II Health and Human Sciences Educator, will leave participants feeling validated, energized, and reminded that they are not alone in carrying the weight of farm and family life. Expect laughter, validation, and tools you can actually use.

 

Breakout Session #4 Options

Join Jessica Riffle, RD, HHS Educator-Fulton County, for this condensed version of Field Ready meals for Farm Families focuses on the importance of building nutrient dense and satisfying snacks. Label reading is an important skill to help decide what gets planned and packed into meals and snacks. We’ll also look at components of the larger-scaled program, sharing images and teasers of what could be done in your communities!

This session is limited to only 20 participants due to the hands-on nature of the lesson. 

Shalee Bradley, Purdue Extension Ag & Natural Resource Educator in Johnson County and Henry Quesada, Ag & Natural Resource Program Leader and Assistant Director of Extension, will show how Lean Thinking tools can help make everyday farm work run smoother. They will talk about simple ways to cut out wasted steps, get more done in less time, and keep things organized. With real farm examples, you’ll see how small changes like setting up work areas better or creating routine can save time, money, and stress. It’s all about working smarter, not harder, and making the farm a little easier to run day to day.

Drone technology has developed rapidly and may be the next tool you need for your farm. Learn about practical ways drones can be used in a farming operation, and then try your hand at flying a drone! No experience required. Join Heidi Potter, Purdue Extension Agriculture & Natural Resources Educator in Clark County and diversified farmer at Summer Solstice Farms in SE Indiana for this unique educational opportunity. 

Join Sara Dzimianski, Purdue Extension Ag & Natural Resource Educator in Perry County to learn how to use goats effectively for forest management with prescribed grazing techniques. During this session, you will be given recommendations for equipment, stock selection, and strategies for managing goats in a forest setting.

2026 Pre-Conference Sessions

Individuals are invited to participate in two different pre-conference sessions on February 18, 2026.  

Price Varies 
Register at: (to be added shortly) 
Registration Deadline: February 6th 

Date: February 18, 2026

Location: Monroe Convention Center, Bloomington, IN 

Time: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Eastern 

Registration Cost: $50 (you must also register for the Ag Engage Conference)

Registration Deadline: February 6, 2026 

Annie’s Project empowers individuals within the agriculture industry by equipping them with essential skills to manage and lead modern farm businesses. Through small-group activities focused on financial, production, marketing, human resources, and estate planning, participants gain confidence, build business knowledge, and form valuable support networks through shared experiences and expert guidance.  To fulfill the Annie’s Project course requirements, individuals must attend the Ag Engage Conference and three virtual sessions (February 25th, March 4th, & March 11th from 6:30-8:30 PM).

 

Space is limited to the first 20 individuals, so early registration is encouraged!

 

Date: February 18, 2026

Location: Owen Valley Winery, Spencer, IN 

Time: 10:30 AM - 2:00 PM Eastern 

Registration Cost: $45 

 Registration Deadline: February 6, 2026 

 

Join us for a special pre-conference experience exploring the rich heritage and growing future of Indiana’s wine industry! This fun and educational event is designed to highlight the unique challenges and opportunities in viticulture across the state. Held at the scenic Owen Valley Winery, the session includes a blend of learning, networking, and of course — tasting.

Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged!

The Emerging Ag Leaders Conference (formerly Young Ladies in Ag Forum) invites young leaders in high school (individuals grades 8-12) and college interested in exploring future jobs in agriculture. 

More information & registration for this year's event will be posted shortly. 

 

 

 

Wednesday Night Networking

More information about the Wednesday night networking will be available soon.

Hotel Information 

We are pleased to offer overnight accommodations at the Courtyard by Marriott Bloomington.  The Courtyard is connected to the Monroe Convention Center.  Please note there is a $15/day parking fee. 

Courtyard by Marriott Bloomington
Rate: $109.00 - $129.00 per night 

Make a Reservation Here

Last Day to Book: Saturday, January 17, 2026

 

Questions or Concerns?

For questions concerning the Ag Engage Conference or any of the activities associated with the conference, please contact Jenna Nees at smith535@purdue.edu or 765-653-8411.

Email Jenna Here

Many Thanks to our

2025 Ag Engage Conference Sponsors

Platinum Sponsor

Farm Credit Mid-America logo

Logo for Keystone Cooperative

Gold SponsorAg Plus logo Indiana Soybean alliance logo

Indiana Corn Marketing Logo

Silver Sponsor

American Dairy Association logo
Diversified Corn Belt Project logo
Huntington University Haupert Institute for Agricultural Studies logo
Indiana Farm Bureau logo
Purdue Ag Alumni logo

Be sure to visit our

2025 Ag Engage Conference Vendors

northcentral SARE logo

AgrIInstitute Leadership, cultivated. Logo

1 First Farmers Bank & Trust Logo

Halderman Real Estate & Farm Management Experience, Knowledge, Professionalism.  For Over 90 years

Truland Equipment logo

Women 4 the Land logo

StoneX logo

DO YOU WANT TO BE A SPONSOR OR VENDOR?

Download The Sponsorship/Vendor Application Here

If you are in need of accommodations to attend this program, please contact Jenna Nees prior to the meeting at 765-653-8411 or smith535@purdue.edu by February 6th.  

For special dietary needs contact Jenna Nees prior to the meeting at 765-653-8411 or smith535@purdue.edu by February 6th.

If you need an interpreter or translator, please contact Jenna Nees prior to the meeting at 765-653-8411 or smith535@purdue.edu by February 6th. 

 

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