From biofuels to plant-based products, corn and soybeans are at the forefront of agriculture innovation. This conversation will showcase how these commodities are being used to develop healthier, more environmentally friendly products, while also reinforcing domestic consumption and reducing reliance on foreign goods. Attendees will gain insights into market trends, policy support, and opportunities for value-added agriculture.

Panelists:

• John Bode | President & CEO, Corn Refiners Association
• Helena Jette | Director, Market Development – Biofuels, Indiana Soybean Alliance & Indiana Corn Marketing Council
• Jim Douglas | Farmer Leader, United Soybean Board
• Kala Jenkins | Government Affairs Advocate, Beck’s

Seed treatments are under increasing scrutiny, but they remain a vital tool for growers. In this session, hear how Beck’s and others in the ag industry are standing up for farmers by defending the use of seed treatments through research, advocacy, and education. We’ll break down the science, clarify the misconceptions, and share what you can do to help protect access to this important technology.

Panelists:

Jordan Gregory | Director, State Government Affairs, ASTA

Jacquie Holland | Economist, American Soybean Association

Jonell Myers | Seed Enhancements Lead, Beck’s

Jim Herr | Processing/Inventory/Wholesale Manager, Beck’s

Kala Jenkins | Government Affairs Advocate, Beck’s

This farmer-focused discussion will pull back the curtain at the latest advancements in autonomous machinery and explore how robotics are shaping the future of farming

Panelists:

• Brad Fruth | Director of Innovation, Beck’s
• Will Hirschfeld | Project Manager, Beck’s
• Andrew & Jocie Bate | SwarmFarm
• Verdant Robotics

Mycotoxins—fungal contaminants that can grow on corn—pose serious risks to both human and animal health. This panel will focus on current research, mitigation strategies, and innovations underway to detect and manage mycotoxin threats. Beck’s has played a leadership role in this area, and the discussion will highlight collaborative industry efforts to address this persistent and complex issue.

Panelists: 

• Kala Jenkins, Government Affairs Advocate, Beck’s
• Mark Apelt, Regional Product Specialist, Beck’s
• Adrienne Woodward, Senior Manager – Discovery & Novel Products, United Animal Health
• Eric DeBlieck, Director of Crop Sciences, Grain Millers Inc.
• Martha Vaughan, Molecular Biologist, USDA

Whether it’s at the coffee shop, around the kitchen table, or on social media, the stories we tell shape how others see agriculture. In this session, hear how Beck’s, other organizations in the industry, and fellow farmers are sharing their experiences to connect with customers, support their communities, and preserve their legacy—and how your story can do the same. 

Panelists:

• Ashley Fischer | Marketing Communications Manager, Beck’s
• Katie Sauer | Owner & Principal Advisor, Epiphium
• Natalina Sents Bausch | Digital Director, Dotdash Meredith

From the farm to the boardroom, women are shaping the future of agriculture. This panel features voices from across the industry who are breaking barriers, leading with purpose, and paving the way for the next generation through business, advocacy, and hands-on work in the field.

Panelists:

• Bethany Gremel | Director of Culture and Brand Experience, Beck’s
• Rima Thapa | Corn Breeder, Beck’s
• Adrienne Held | Executive Editor, Agronomy, Successful Farming
• Zoe Kent | Farmer, Content Creator
• Denise Scarborough | Farmer, Board of Director for Indiana Soybean Alliance, Ag/Commercial Loan Officer at The First National Bank of Monterey

Ag creators are using platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, podcasts, and radio to do more than entertain—they’re advocating for agriculture, educating others, and building real community. In this session, hear how they’re turning everyday moments into meaningful conversations that connect and inspire.

Panelists:

• Rob & Emily Sharkey | @sharkeyfarms
• Zoe Kent | @farmwithzoe
• Jena Ochsner | @jenaochsner
• Mary Pat Sass | @marypat.sass

Talking about succession isn’t always easy—but it’s essential. In this session, we’ll share practical advice and real experiences to help families start the conversation, navigate tough topics, and plan for a smooth transition to the next generation.

Panelists:

• Rob & Emily Sharkey | SharkFarmer Media
• Richard Roach | RAKR Farms
• Rick Roach | RAKR Farms
• Kyle Dyer | RAKR Farms

This session offers a farmer-focused discussion on a rapidly emerging soybean disease, exploring its potential impact on yields and the most effective strategies for managing it in the field. Farmers will leave with practical tools, early identification tips, and a clearer understanding of how to stay ahead of this growing threat.

Panelists: 

• Matt Montgomery | Agronomy Education Lead, Beck's
• Holly Spangler | Executive Editor, Farm Progress
• Stephanie Porter | Outreach Agronomist, Illinois Soybean Association
• Boris Camiletti | Assistant Professor, University of Illinois

Join the Beck family as they discuss the history of Beck's as a company, their family dynamics, coming back to work for the company, what separates Beck's from competitors, and more.