As the technology revolution continues in agriculture, autonomous equipment and fleet management are seen by many as an opportunity for growers to reduce labor demands and boost efficiency for their farm operation

But adoption of this technology isn’t without its growing pains, as the machines, software and operational decision making must all work together.

Mike Lessiter, president of Lessiter Media, the parent company of Precision Farming Dealer, recently moderated an expert panel discussion entitled, “New Technology: Today, Tomorrow & Beyond,” at the Farm  Equipment Manufacturers Assn. (FEMA) Fall Convention in Addison, Texas. F EMA’s Tech Council selected four expert panelists for the discussion:

• Colin Hurd, CEO, Mach: described as an autonomy solutions provider who assists OEMs in all aspects of technology, perception, navigation, route planning, monitoring, and connectivity. Colin was the founder of SmartAg, the first retro-FRIT driverless tractor automation system, which was acquired by Raven and later CNH. 
• Chris Hunsaker, Co-Founder and CEO, AcutusAg: leads an ag software company engaged in improving the efficiencies of the world’s ag operations. Previously, Chris and his family owned and operated Double L Equipment Company — an implement company and FEMA member — which was sold to an investor group in 2021. 
• Daniel Rauchholz, Founder and President, Farmada: heads a manufacturer of ground-breaking farm implements. Offers global perspective, having previously served as international sales manager for Great Plains Manufacturing.
• Roger Murdock, Sales & Marketing Director, Montag Manufacturing: currently serving on FEMA board, his career spans many specialized ag…