With the rapid evolution of technology, farmers may not be able to afford to continue to control all aspects of their operations. Autonomous farm machinery could lead to producers outsourcing tasks to a skilled equipment operator, allowing the farmer to focus on other parts of their operation. 

Mike Houghtaling, president and founder of P&C Ag Solutions in Reese, Mich., views adoption of autonomy in six stages. Each stage represents an opportunity for the independent retailer to demonstrate the reliability and necessity for new precision agriculture equipment.