2027 Winter Leadership Experience logo

Early-bird registration is now open for the 2027 Winter Leadership Experience, set for Jan. 22-23 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. 

Hosted by Ohio Farm Bureau’s Young Agricultural Professionals State Committee, the Winter Leadership Experience gives farmers, students and ag professionals an opportunity to build personal and professional skills, make new connections and grow as leaders in their community, Farm Bureau and agriculture. The conference is open to Farm Bureau members of all ages.

With the theme “Growing Connections. Shaping Legacy,” the 2027 Winter Leadership Experience will focus on bringing members together to step away from daily operations, gain fresh perspectives and grow together. Breakout sessions will offer practical information and ideas participants can take back to their farms, businesses and communities. 

Participants of the 2027 Winter Leadership Experience will also hear from keynote speaker, Dan Venteicher, known online as the Iowa Dairy Farmer. Venteicher will share his personal experience navigating cancer, losing his mom, a farm accident that nearly took his father, and the everyday challenges of agriculture. His story will focus on the relationships, faith and sense of purpose that have helped him stay connected through it all.

In addition, WLE offers a Networking and Partnership Showcase and a night of entertainment for the whole family. More details around these events, new pre-conference tours and training options, the complementary onsite child care service and more can be found on the 2027 Winter Leadership Experience website at ofb.ag/WLE.

Early-bird pricing for the conference will end Dec. 15, 2026, with a final registration deadline of Jan. 5, 2027. Event details, session updates and registration are available at ofb.ag/WLE.

Ohio Farm Bureau’s mission is working together for Ohio farmers to advance agriculture and strengthen our communities. Learn more at ohiofarmbureau.org.

This is a news release for use by journalists. Questions should be directed to Ryan Matthews, 614-246-8210 or [email protected].

New and beginning farmers
My first recommendation in your journey is to start out with a local farming friend or mentor along with joining an organization like Ohio Farm Bureau.
Greg McGlinch's avatar
Greg McGlinch

Darke County Farm Bureau

Growing Tomorrow Grant
We’re just so thankful for the Farm Bureau and the foundation for helping put this together. And of course, the Boyert family for the vision they had with this grant. It’s jumping us forward 10 years. It’s unbelievable.
Nathan and Jill Parriman's avatar
Nathan and Jill Parriman

Clermont County Farm Bureau

Bringing the farm back to life
I could not have done it without the resources I have found through Farm Bureau.
Gretchan Francis's avatar
Gretchan Francis

Trumbull County Farm Bureau

Youth pathways in Farm Bureau
It wasn’t until I joined the Wilmington College Collegiate Farm Bureau that I truly saw how my passion could translate into leadership, advocacy and a career.
Wyatt Morrow's avatar
Wyatt Morrow

Clinton County Farm Bureau

Giving farmers a voice
The issue of property taxation remains as one of the biggest challenges our members face today. Ensuring agricultural property is valued for its agricultural potential and not development is critical to the continued success of Ohio agriculture.
Matt Aultman's avatar
Matt Aultman

Darke County Farm Bureau

Select Partner Program
Through the Select Partner program, we became educated in farm insurance and weren't just selling policies. It became more and more clear why farmers need an advocate like Ohio Farm Bureau.
Chad Ruhl's avatar
Chad Ruhl

Farm manager, CSI Insurance

Advocacy
So many of the issues that OFBF and its members are advocating for are important to all Ohioans. I look at OFBF as an agricultural watchdog advocating for farmers and rural communities across Ohio.
Mary Smallsreed's avatar
Mary Smallsreed

Trumbull County Farm Bureau

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