The American Soybean Association (ASA) and Corteva Agriscience are seeking applicants for the 2021 ASA Corteva Agriscience Young Leader Program. The Young Leader Program, sponsored by Corteva Agriscience and ASA, is a two-phase educational program for actively farming individuals and couples who are passionate about the future possibilities of agriculture. The women and men who participate in this program will be the leaders that shape the future of agriculture.

“After attending this program, I feel like I will be a far better advocate for agriculture for the rest of my life,” said Minnesota soybean farmer Ryan Mackenthun, a 2019-2020 Young Leader graduate. “I highly recommend this program.  It was a great learning experience to learn about myself as a speaker and advocate.”

Phase I of the 2021 ASA Corteva Agriscience Young Leader Program will take place Dec. 1 to 4, 2020 at Corteva’s Global Business Center in Johnston, Iowa. The program continues March 2 to 6, 2021 in San Antonio in conjunction with the annual Commodity Classic Convention and Trade Show. Past Minnesota farmers who’ve participated in the Young Leader program include Minnesota Soybean Growers Association President Jamie Beyer and former President Michael Petefish.

“The Young Leader program has had a tremendous impact on the soybean industry. Many of the leaders at the state and national level got their start in this program, including me,” said Worthington farmer ASA President Bill Gordon. “The Young Leader program is special because it focuses on the grower’s potential while helping them creating meaningful and lifelong relationships with growers from across the U.S. and Canada. This is extremely important as we work to ensure growers have the tools, they need to be profitable. The program also includes both partners in the operation which builds both the business and the industry. We are grateful to Corteva Agriscience for continuing to invest in the
future of agriculture.”

Soybean grower couples and individuals are encouraged to apply for the program, which focuses on leadership and communication, the latest agricultural information, and the development of a strong peer network. Spouses, even those not employed full-time on farm, are encouraged to attend and will be active participants in all elements of the program. ASA, its 26 state affiliates, the Grain Farmers of Ontario and Corteva Agriscience, will work together to identify the top producers to represent their state as part of this program.

“America’s farmers provide the strongest voice for, not only agriculture, but also for rural America. We are proud to support the young leader program, which is developing the next generation of grower leaders and advocates for U.S. agriculture,” said Matt Rekeweg, U.S. Corteva Agriscience’s Industry Affairs leader.

Applications are being accepted online now. The deadline to apply is Sept. 10. Interested applicants should click here for additional program information and to apply.