Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the agriculture industry, changing how farmers approach planting, harvesting, and equipment maintenance. At the CIFT Agribusiness Forum, experts discussed the practical applications of AI in farming, including weed-sensing technology, predictive diagnostics, and autonomous tractors. Andrew Drerup, a 20-year industry veteran, explained how AI is helping farmers increase efficiency, reduce costs, and stay ahead of labor shortages and shifting demands. He demonstrated an AI-driven sprayer that targets specific weeds and an AI-powered combine that adjusts to changing crop conditions. Drerup emphasized that AI is a tool for smart decision-making, not a replacement for human judgment. Microsoft and the National FFA Organization have also launched a national education program, FarmBeats for Students, to teach middle and high school students about AI, smart sensors, and data science in agriculture. The program aims to equip students with technical knowledge, confidence, and adaptability to thrive in the evolving agriculture industry and create a more sustainable and innovative future.
Agricultural experts and growers convened at a forum to discuss the impact of artificial intelligence on the farming industry.
