Date/Time
Date(s) - January 29, 2021 - January 30, 2021
2:00 pm - 12:00 pm

Categories No Categories


The Ohio Farm Bureau Federation’s Young Ag Professionals Winter Leadership Experience is an opportunity to build personal and professional experience while networking with agricultural leaders. In 2021, participants will use a virtual platform to learn leadership skills to further their impact in their communities, Farm Bureau and agriculture.

The theme for the 2021 Winter Leadership Experience, slated for Jan. 29-30, is “Cultivating Progress in Times of Change.” The event, thanks to the support of Heritage Sponsor Nationwide and Platinum Sponsor Farm Credit Mid-America and Silver Sponsor AgCredit, will offer participants the capability to connect with industry leaders and see several exciting new opportunities to engage and network with others from around the state.

Although the conference is coordinated by young ag professionals, the YAP State Committee recognizes this has been a year of learning for many farmers and is opening the 2021 Winter Leadership Experience to all Ohio Farm Bureau members.

Keynote speakers

Rob Sharkey, host of the Shark Farmer Podcast, and inspirational speaker Matt Rush will address the group.

Sharkey, known in digital circles as The Shark Farmer, is not your average Illinois grain farmer. He’s a disrupter who is unwavering in his ability to directly address controversial topics. With the hog crash of ‘98 in the rearview mirror, a turn-key outfitting business thriving and a handful of acres demanding more time than is warranted, the only logical step was to launch a necessary – yet stupendously groundbreaking – podcast. His provocative style parallels a story-based structure, which resonates with thousands of weekly, global listeners.

Matt Rush takes good and makes it… GOODER. He has served as the former CEO of the New Mexico Farm Bureau and past president of the Ethos Leadership Group. He also previously has served on the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture board of directors. Rush is passionate about his values, helping others and is dedicated to “planting the seeds of greatness” by developing a strong, successful future for current and upcoming generations.

Breakout sessions

The event also will feature 20 unique breakout sessions covering topics from traditional farming, young professionals and niche and specialty growers to business management and consumer engagement. Session speakers include representatives from Ohio State University, Wendy’s Quality Supply Chain Co-op, Inc.; Wilmington College; Nationwide, Farm Credit Mid-America, AgCredit, USDA, American Farm Bureau Young Farmer & Rancher Committee, and business owners. 

The 2021 Winter Leadership Experience will wrap up with a major announcement of the location for the 2022 event.

To participate

 Visit the event website for agenda, speaker and registration information.

Costs: 

  • Registration by Jan. 28- $50 per person–Discounted rate!
  • Student and Educator Registration (anytime)- $25 per person

Discounts available for Group Memberships. Contact the county Farm Bureau for registration details.

Attendance at the Young Ag Professionals Leadership Experience is just one benefit of being an Ohio Farm Bureau member.  Learn more about membership or join now.