With nearly 30 years of experience in precision agriculture, Paul is an ag tech advocate dedicated to using technology to help farmers enhance their operations. He holds a bachelor’s degree in agronomy from South Dakota State University and previously worked as a retail agronomist before taking on various roles at Raven Industries, helping the company become a global leader in precision agriculture. He also sat on the board of directors at SST Software. Paul lives in Austin, Texas, with his wife, Heather, and two daughters.
Q: From a leadership standpoint, what have you learned in your position?
A: Innovation is key, and I’ve learned that it’s a continuous journey. At Raven, I saw firsthand how precision ag solutions reshaped farming practices, and now with New Holland, I’m seeing how integration and collaboration across platforms create even greater efficiencies. As a leader, it’s crucial to stay open to learning and evolving, especially in an industry as dynamic as agriculture. Innovation doesn’t have a finish line; it requires a constant drive to improve, whether through new technologies or refining existing processes.
Q: What strategies do you employ to help bring your team together?
A: For me, clear communication is key. People need to understand the why behind what we’re doing, not just the what. Creating a sense of shared
purpose, while giving individuals ownership of their roles, fosters collaboration. I also believe in leading by example — if I’m willing to roll up my sleeves and get involved — it sends a strong message to the team that we’re all in this together.
Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
A: The best advice I ever received was to never get too comfortable. Agriculture thrives on change, and you need to keep pushing forward. Another valuable lesson is the importance of listening, especially to your customers. By understanding their needs and challenges, you can ensure innovation truly adds value. A focus on the customer should always drive what we do because they’re at the heart of every decision we make.
Q: What advice would you give to someone just getting started in an ag career?
A: My advice would be to stay curious, ask questions and never stop learning. This industry is evolving quickly with technology, and understanding those advancements will help give you an edge. You’re not going to know all the answers, so be brave and ask questions. Equally important is listening — whether it’s your peers, mentors or customers. Building relationships based on trust and actively listening to others’ needs is what will set you apart and help you succeed.
Q: What do you think farmers should know today about the future of automation and robotics in ag?
A: Automation and robotics are going to be game-changers. Farmers should know that these technologies won’t replace them but will be essential tools to enhance efficiency and reduce labor challenges. The key is to stay informed and open to adopting these innovations, as they will allow farmers to produce more with fewer resources, ultimately making farming more sustainable and profitable for seasons and years to come.
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