Discounted room rate:
$249 + fees & taxes

Jan. 5-9, 2024
Check-in: 4:00 pm
Check-out: 11:00 am

Palm Springs Int'l Airport
Distance to hotel: 15.5 Miles

On-Site Self Parking
Daily: $25.00
Valet Parking
Daily: $40.00

Ag commodities expert, Shawn Hackett has a passion for helping Ag industry leaders and farmers with financial risk management, hedging, and the utility of indicator-based Ag commodity price forecasting tools.

A frequent contributor to Barron’s, Futures Magazine, Reuters,Bloomberg, US Farm Report, Ag-TV, Market to Market-IPTV as well as a regular radio show contributor for the likes of Chip Flory-AgriTalk After The Bell, Susan Littlefield Fontanelle After the Bell-Michell Rook-Ag Day and Linda Brekke-The Linda Network.

Ag commodities expert, Shawn Hackett has dedicated his life to educating Ag industry leaders and farmers about financial risk management, hedging and the utility of indicator-based Ag commodity price forecasting tools.

His extensive research on long-term cycles and statistics on climate, currencies, geopolitics, and global capital flows have long been a key differentiating factor for Shawn’s price forecasting skills.

Shawn takes complicated concepts and presents them in an easily digestible framework to a wide audience and discusses them regularly in his subscriber-based Hackett Agricultural Report and Hackett Dairy Report.

Voss is a former FBI hostage negotiator, the CEO of The Black Swan Group Ltd, author, and academic. He is an adjunct Professor at Harvard Law School, Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business, and a lecturer at the Marshall School of Business at USC.

Voss was a member of the New York City Joint Terrorism Task Force from 1986 to 2000. He was involved in monitoring the New York City landmark bomb plot after spending three years investigating the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, one of 500 agents who were involved in the task. He was the "co-case agent" during the investigation of the 1996 TWA Flight 800 explosion.

In 1992, he received hostage negotiation training at the FBI Academy. He spent 24 years working in the FBI Crisis Negotiation Unit and was the FBI's chief international hostage and kidnapping negotiator from 2003 to 2007.

In 2006, he was the lead negotiator on the Jill Carroll case in Iraq as well as the Steve Centanni case in the Gaza Strip. Voss supervised additional hostage cases in the Philippines, Colombia and Haiti.

After working on more than 150 international hostage cases, he retired from the FBI in 2007 and founded The Black Swan Group. The Black Swan Group serves as a consultancy and trainer for both businesses and individuals on negotiation skills. He became an adjunct professor at Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business and a lecturer at the USC Marshall School of Business.

In 2016, Voss co-authored the book Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It, with journalist Tahl Raz. Voss was given the Attorney General's Award for Excellence in Law Enforcement as well as the FBI Agents Association Award for Distinguished and Exemplary Service and is a regular commentator on CNBC, CNN, MSNBC, and Fox News, and NPR. He has also been featured in Forbes, The New York Times, Inc., Variety, and Time. In 2019, he created and narrated a MasterClass, The Art of Negotiation.

Responsible for what the Navy Times called the “Miracle Makeover” of the aircraft carrier USS GERALD R. FORD, J.J. has led thousands of men and women in high stress, “no-fail” environments.

His leadership approach helped his teams succeed and accomplish challenging missions in the unforgiving world of aircraft carrier and fighter aviation.

J.J., a former Navy fighter pilot, was the Commanding Officer of the most technologically advanced vessel in the world, the nuclear-powered USS GERALD R. FORD.

He was also Executive Officer of the aircraft carrier USS NIMITZ, Commanding Officer of the amphibious assault ship USS ANCHORAGE, and Commanding Officer of an FA-18F Super Hornet squadron. He was the first Technical Advisor for the 2022 film, TOPGUN Maverick.

Prior to assuming command positions, J.J. was an F-14 Tomcat instructor pilot, a TOPGUN graduate, and successfully completed the prestigious Navy Nuclear Propulsion Program.

He completed multiple overseas aircraft carrier deployments, logged 3,900 hours and 740 aircraft carrier landings in fighter aircraft and has 137 combat missions over Iraq and Afghanistan. He holds a B.A. in Physics, an M.S. in Education and an M.A. in National Security and Strategic Studies.

US Agriculture in 2025 and Beyond: Navigating Market Shifts

Mac Marshall
Principal, Balcony View Consulting

- Customers at home: trends in animal agriculture
- Customers abroad: shifting international trade
- Bridging home and abroad: crops and transportation fuels

Mac brings nearly two decades of experience in economic and market analysis and dissemination, corporate strategy, public affairs, and public speaking. Prior to serving as an independent strategic advisor, Mac was the Vice President of Market Intelligence for the United Soybean Board, following roles in international government affairs at Bayer Crop Science, corporate strategy at Monsanto, and serving as an economist in both managerial and non-managerial capacities at the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Vassar College and a Master of Arts in Applied Economics at Johns Hopkins University.

3 Sessions:
Crystal Ballroom A
1/8/2024 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Crystal Ballroom A
1/8/2024 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Crystal Ballroom A
1/8/2024 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

It’s Time to Lift Your Anchors

Katie Sauer
Epiphium

In the crowded and fast-moving waters of the seed industry, farmers are in search of seed businesses that help them navigate critical decisions. This is at odds with the ways we traditionally try to win their business – through products, programs, and “better than” messaging. Attempting to build our differentiation around these anchors our customers, prospects, and businesses to the past – and limits our ability to grow. What if instead of anchoring to our products, we sailed toward our customers? What if we focused on what they wanted first, and sought the products to deliver that to them second? Winning the customer intimacy battle will be the key to independent brands’ future success. In this breakout we’ll share why we believe this, ways you could go about it, and how Epiphium can help your business lift the anchors that are weighing you down… so you can navigate the changing ag currents with confidence.

Katie Sauer is a sales and marketing consultant who is passionate about helping independent brands succeed. She applies 18 years of sales, marketing, and communication experience to help seed companies navigate the complexities of the market, gain valuable insights into their own businesses, and create and implement strategic plans that will carry their brands into the future. Prior to consulting, Katie spent 1 6 years at Monsanto, where she held roles in marketing, account management, communication, and sales support in various areas of the company, including direct - to - farmer brands, corporate affairs, and licensing . Following that corporate experience, she spent 2 years in the start - up space, where she focused on commercial developmen t and marketing at Inari. Katie holds a B.A. in communication from Truman State University and an MBA from Saint Louis University.

3 Sessions:
Crystal Ballroom B
1/8/2024 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Crystal Ballroom B
1/8/2024 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Crystal Ballroom B
1/8/2024 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

& Scott Keetle
Epiphium

Building successful relationships in life and business are what matters most to Scott. For over 23 years, the seed business has enabled him to develop strong relationships across the industry. The experiences of brands and business structures from small, regional companies to large, multi - national corporations, has given him insights into what matters most. G rowing up on a family farm near Waverly, Nebraska gave Scott his passion to serve an industry he cares greatly about. Upon receiving his B.A. from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, Scott joined the seed industry as a District Sales Manager for Golden Ha rvest Seeds. Over the past 20 years Scott has enjoyed roles in sales management, professional training and development, general management, and strategic marketing with Monsanto, Syngenta, Becks Hybrids, AgReliant, and Inari. Scott is taking his expertise in sales enablement and strategic marketing to advise businesses to help them put their full potential to work.

Building an Effective Multi-Generational Workplace

Jeff Butler
Speaker, Author and workplace strategist

- Discover potential points of generational conflict and tactics to handle them
- Learn how to strengthen cross-generational communication to foster company wide ideation
- Obtain specific strategies to leverage multi generational differences like optimizing recruitment and retention

Modern day workplace has four generations working under one roof: Baby Boomers, Generation Xers, Millennials and now Generation Z. All work together to accomplish common organizational goals, however, with differences in each of these generation’s viewpoints, upbringings, culture, ideas, beliefs and experiences, it is likely to see some tiffs or clashes within the organization. Hence, makes managing four different generations in the workplace an extremely difficult task to accomplish, though not impossible. With right guidance, support and advice, the task of managing these four generations under one roof is achievable. The support may come in various forms, one of which is this program.

This program focuses on managing four different generations in the workplace where author and practitioner Jeff Butler, backed by a decade of psychological research, shares insights about motivations, differences, and communication styles of these four generations. You will learn how organizations across various industries are thriving with a multigenerational workforce and how yours can too. Through this program you’ll find specific actionable strategies to manage your cross-generational challenges and turn your multigenerational workforce into a competitive advantage.

1 Session:
Crystal Ballroom H
1/8/2024 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Agronomy, Biologicals and Placement Technology

Mike Tweedy
Pattern Ag

Mike is a dynamic, action-oriented and outcomes-driven executive leader, passionate about building high performing teams, driving explosive growth and profitability at innovative agriculture companies. Mike has a wide range of experience building and leading teams in multi-national companies, small innovative start-ups and the largest ag tech startup in history. He is skilled in building commercial teams in high growth companies, strategy, P&L management and operations. Mike's core principles focus on leadership, ownership, accountability, problem-solving, collaboration, coaching, providing the customer with a great experience and working with a sense of urgency. He's comfortable working in an ambiguous environment, under pressure and bringing order to chaos. He's built a track record of hiring A+ talent and has built the highest level of trust with employees by providing continued growth through thoughtful coaching. Mike currently leads commercial sales for Pattern Ag and is responsible for scaling the business. Previously served dual roles at Indigo as the Head of Sales and Service and Head of North American Carbon in the Crop Production business. In these positions he led nearly 100 people and was accountable for executing sales for the North American Crop Production business. He was the first commercial employee at Indigo in 2017 and helped scale the company and successfully built six teams. Among those teams were the first two field sales and service teams, Systems Deployment, Agronomy business unit and North American Carbon. Mike led two reorganizations of the North American commercial business as it continued to grow and expand. He also took on the added responsibility of overseeing Commercial Enablement & Training, reorganizing to focus on high-impact learning, to exceed targets.

3 Sessions:
Crystal Ballroom C
1/8/2024 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Crystal Ballroom C
1/8/2024 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Crystal Ballroom C
1/8/2024 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

& Cam Norgate
Pattern Ag

Self-directed, entrepreneurial executive with experience building products, businesses, and teams in high growth markets. Started and grown multiple businesses from the ground up. Deep background in business strategy, with almost a decade of product experience spanning a spectrum of industries and company life stages.

Pattern Ag is leveraging advances in genomics, data science, and microbiology to help farmers improve the productivity and profitability of their land. By applying genomic analysis to farm soil, we unlock a wide range of predictive insights that help farmers optimize their spend on seed, crop protection, and fertility inputs. Combining these insights with the latest in digital sensing, data science, and machine learning, we are ushering in the era of predictive agriculture, powering on-farm decision making for millions of acres, and billions in crop spend.

AI in Agriculture

Dr. Cengiz Koparan
Assistant Professor of Precision Agriculture Technology at the University of Arkansas

Dr. Cengiz Koparan is a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Precision Agriculture Technology at the University of Arkansas since 2023. He serves in the Department of Agricultural Education, Communications and Technology with input from the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering. He earned his Ph.D. in Plant and Environmental Science from Clemson University. His research program investigates use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and Unmanned Ground Vehicles for improving agricultural practices by developing novel methods, concepts, and technologies. He specializes in computer-assisted agricultural machine systems in precision agriculture and the application of these technologies in improving agricultural systems.

2 Sessions:
Crystal Ballroom H
1/8/2024 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Crystal Ballroom H
1/8/2024 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Innovations in Agriculture Technology and Genetics

Jim Schweigert
Gro Alliance

Jim is a third-generation seedsman and president of Gro Alliance, the largest independently owned seed supply chain solutions provider in North America. The company specializes in seed production, custom seed breeding and aggregating growers for closed-loop and value added seed products. It also has a joint-venture in Chile, called CIS Alliance, where is offers custom seed breeding services in row crops, oil seeds and vegetables. The company launched Breeder Direct in 2020 which out licenses corn and soybean germplasm to seed companies. Jim serves as a board advisor for the soybean breeding company, ZeaKal and UV light treatment company, BioLumic. He served as the chair of the American Seed Trade Association in 2022-2023. He has a BA in public relations from the University of Minnesota and an MS in seed technology and business from Iowa State.

3 Sessions:
Crystal Ballroom G
1/8/2024 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Crystal Ballroom G
1/8/2024 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Crystal Ballroom G
1/8/2024 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

& Carl Peterson
Peterson Farms Seed

Carl Peterson is a founder and CEO of Peterson Farms Seed in Harwood, ND. The Peterson Farms Seed brand of corn and soybeans is sold in North Dakota, Minnesota and eastern South Dakota through a network of qualified seed dealers. Over the past 29 years, Carl has led the company to become the largest independent seed company in the region. He prides himself on building a company where team members enjoy coming to work – and where each member can be challenged to continue to grow. Carl earned his B.A. in Ag Production from Iowa State University. He holds a master’s degree in agricultural economics from Purdue University and a MBA from Indiana University. He is also a Certified Crop Advisor. He is most proud of his “World’s Best Dad” cup; however, the provenance of that award is somewhat suspect. Carl is married to company co-founder, Julie, with whom he shares three objectively wonderful adult children. When not in the office, Carl enjoys reading and snow-skiing as well as playing keyboard and singing on his church’s worship team.

PREMIER

Focused on developing and manufacturing alternative solutions for farmers that provide a high level of quality and performance at an economical value.We put the power of choice into your hands by offering a broad portfolio of high-quality, competitively priced crop protection, seed treatment, turf & ornamental, and industrial products. Albaugh is Your Alternative: the company that re-imagined the role of post-patent suppliers. We are constantly working to improve the industry standard, bringing a broad array of cost-effective solutions and unmatched customer service to all of the industries we serve.

Corn States has been a part of Monsanto since 1997, and today we offer independent seed companies across the U.S. with Monsanto’s leading genetics, traits and seed treatments. Our own history, legacy and expertise stemmed from Holden’s Foundation Seeds and Corn States Hybrid Service – both well-known in the history of the seed industry as reliable suppliers of high-quality foundation seed.

Inari is the SEEDesign™ company, using new breeding technology to push the boundaries of what is possible by designing nature-positive seeds for a more sustainable food system. A combination of AI-powered predictive design and a cutting-edge multiplex gene editing toolbox enables Inari to unlock the full potential of seed and advance critical solutions with broad applications for growing more food with fewer resources.

At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Through science and innovation we enable our customers in nearly every industry to meet the current and future needs of society.

In four decades of operation, we have built together a history great in learning, success and achievements. We celebrate 40 years of a Future Now embodied in passionate and talented people with the certainty that looking forward is the best way to honor our Past, consolidate our Present and make our Future possible.

Built by Americans, with American products and technology, we strive to give farmers the right tools to fight back and get more bushels for less. Every day at Meristem, we are sourcing, formulating and delivering high-quality crop inputs with a keen focus on exceptional customer service. We create real economic value by helping farmers, and independent farm businesses make the most of their infrastructure and intellectual property investments by removing waste in the crop input distribution channel. At Meristem, we are passionate about creating the most efficient channel to move crop input technologies to market for the benefit of the American Farmer.

Protecting and preserving the source of our food and helping our agricultural communities thrive

Market-leading germplasm, trait stacks and a robust R&D pipeline. We help customers meet market demands and realize success.

Peterson Genetics, Inc., is the leading provider of soybean germplasm to the North American soybean seed trade. Our company was founded in 1976, and we’ve been working with seed companies from our location in Cedar Falls, Iowa for more than 40 years.

STRATEGIC

While a lot has changed over the past 90+ years, our strong commitment to serving our customers and adapting to meet their changing needs remains the same. This philosophy has allowed us to develop ‘sustainable’ long term relationships with many of our customers. We invite you to explore our site to learn more about how Central Bag Company can provide innovative packaging solutions for you and your business!

Your products are vital to your business. Whether you are storing your products in a local facility or transporting them across the world, our goal is to make sure those products are protected throughout the entire supply chain. We know you have unique needs. Buckhorn does more than just sell boxes – we manufacture solutions to complex problems. Regardless of your industry, we will work with you to determine the best possible reusable packaging solution for your business.

Reinforce Your Pythium Protection Pythium is one of the leading causes of yield loss in corn. With a novel mode of action, Vayantis® fungicide seed treatment provides substantially better Pythium protection than older technologies to combat all known U.S. Pythium species.

Where entrepreneurs and innovators get invited to test, refine, scale, and launch the most progressive and impactful technologies defining our shared ag future.

ENDURING

SUPPORTING

CONTRIBUTING

IPSA sponsors have exclusive opportunities to stand out at the annual conference with exhibitor booths, tier-colored name badges, mobile event app features including a 10 megabyte colored brochure ad, exhibitor directory listing, floorplan booth locator with a direct link to company profile, and much more!

Sponsors will have an opportunity to select a booth during the registration process. If you are not a sponsor and are interested in a booth, please contact 870-336-0777 or email Cat Frans at Cat@ipseed.org.

CAT FRANS

IPSA COO

TODD MARTIN

IPSA CEO

COLLEEN HARDY

IPSA PROGRAM MANAGER

REGISTRATION CUTOFF DATE IS:
DECEMBER 6, 2024