By Blake Jackson
The Wisconsin Soybean Association (WSA) is encouraging passionate farm advocates to step forward and apply for the 2026 ASA Corteva Agriscience Young Leader Program, a leadership development opportunity for soybean growers.
Sponsored by the American Soybean Association (ASA) and Corteva Agriscience, this initiative is designed to cultivate strong leaders within the soybean industry.
“This program delivers on so many levels, from building communication abilities to learning the innerworkings of promoting farm-friendly policy and has proven over the years to help shape and elevate emerging leaders in our industry,” WSA President Doug Rebout said. “Applying to become an ASA Corteva Young Leader is worth the time, and I encourage my fellow farmers to learn more about this one-of-kind training program.”
The program is divided into two phases. Phase I will take place December 1-4, 2025, at Corteva’s Global Business Center in Johnston, Iowa.
Phase II will follow from February 24-27, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas, during the annual Commodity Classic Convention and Trade Show.
ASA President and Kentucky soybean grower Caleb Ragland emphasized the value of the program, noting, “The Young Leader program has had a tremendous impact on the soybean industry by helping identify, train and prepare farmers who are interested in leadership and advocacy.”
The program is open to soybean producers, whether individuals or couples, who are at an early stage in their leadership journey. Spouses or partners are encouraged to attend and participate fully, even if they’re not employed full-time on the farm. The curriculum focuses on leadership development, industry trends, communication, and building networks.
Matt Rekeweg, U.S. Industry Affairs Leader for Corteva Agriscience, added, “Corteva is proud to support this longstanding and impactful program to help develop the next generation of grower leaders.”
WSA continues to support the program, with several directors, including Vice President Matt Rehberg and ASA Director Tanner Johnson, having participated in past cohorts. Columbus farmer Brad Sennhenn, a 2025 graduate, shared, “What they could do in just four short days of training to give some confidence in my communication abilities was incredible.”
Applications are due by September 1.
Photo Credit: wisconsin-soybean-marketing-board
Categories: Wisconsin, Crops, Soybeans