When Minnesotans dive into their farming career, there isn’t a Human Resources department walking them through workplace trainings, explaining company policies and role expectations. 

No, for many farmers, their “onboarding” is a combination of growing up on or around the farm, a series of trial and error plus advice from their support system. Through the MN Young & Emerging Farmer Workshop, the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA) is a part of that integral support system.  

“The next generation of farmers are hungry for information and resources, and it’s critical for MSGA to play a part in cultivating those growers,” said MSGA Treasurer Rose Wendinger Karau, who also leads the Young and Emerging Committee. “The MN Young & Emerging Workshop walks participants through just about every aspect of farming operations, giving them a play-by-play.” 

The third annual workshop kicked off on Monday, Jan. 19 with a social hour during which participants met each other, and several MSGA and Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council farmer leaders. The next morning, workshop programming began with Profinium Bank, the premier sponsor of the workshop, and Farm Business Management walking participants through the ins and outs of building financial statements. To piggyback off the first session, Profinium and USDA’s Farm Service Agency sat on a panel discussing various beginning and first-time loan options. 

“Without our business sponsors, this workshop wouldn’t be possible,” Wendinger said. “Building a team of trusted experts is an important part of growing your farm operation, so it’s invaluable that these businesses are willing to offer their time and expertise to the future of farming.” 

Tax preparation is crucial for farmers, so Eide Bailly met with the group to go over tax dos and don’ts, and participants peppered the presenters with questions. After, CHS gave a grain marketing outlook and a trend outlook for the coming year. The day wrapped up with MN Ag Expo’s keynote speaker John Harrington, Miracle on Ice Olympian. 

A critical component of farm operations, the second day kicked off with a breakdown of crop insurance options. Then, representatives from MSGA, Minnesota Farm Bureau and Minnesota Farmers Union sat down for a panel discussion about agriculture policy and the importance of grassroots advocacy on Minnesota farms. Chris Roe from Blethen Berens followed with a next generation succession planning presentation before the group headed to a grain bin safety demonstration. 

“This is your workshop,” MSGA Director Jeremy Tischer told participants. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions during the sessions and make the most out your time.” 

Despite a blizzard warning, the group persevered and rounded out the workshop with a panel discussing how to build a professional relationship with your landlord and an “Agronomy 101” presentation from Central Farm Services. 

“Like years prior, the workshop was not only successful, but a fun experience,” Wendinger said. “Attendees got to network with each other and hear different perspectives while learning about the myriad resources available to them to help them succeed.”