By Blake Jackson
The Wisconsin Farm Bureau is preparing to host the Cultivate and Connect Conference, a one-day event designed to help members of the agricultural community strengthen their leadership, communication and outreach skills. The conference will bring together Farm Bureau members, agricultural professionals and industry leaders for a day of learning, networking and professional development.
The event is focused on creating opportunities for individuals involved in agriculture to expand their knowledge, exchange ideas, and build stronger connections within the industry. Through educational sessions, interactive discussions, and networking activities, attendees will gain valuable tools that can be used to support agriculture and strengthen engagement with consumers and communities.
Cultivate and Connect was developed to inspire, educate and empower agricultural leaders. The program aims to provide practical learning experiences that help participants improve communication skills, increase public awareness of agriculture, and build confidence when sharing their experiences and knowledge about farming. By encouraging meaningful conversations and professional growth, the conference supports efforts to strengthen the agricultural sector.
"The P&E committee is excited to provide Farm Bureau members with practical tools to strengthen outreach with a focus on media and brand training from dynamic presenters," said WFBF Promotion and Engagement Chair Steve Mueller. "Attendees will leave with actionable resources to confidently share their story and build meaningful connections with consumers."
A major focus of the event is communication and outreach. Participants will have the opportunity to learn effective strategies for engaging with consumers, sharing agricultural stories, and promoting a better understanding of modern farming practices. Training sessions will include insights from experienced speakers and industry professionals who will provide valuable perspectives on communication, branding, and leadership.
Conference organizers believe strong communication skills are essential for agriculture's future success. Farmers and agricultural leaders often serve as important voices for the industry, helping educate the public about food production, environmental stewardship and the role of agriculture in local communities. By building these skills, participants can become stronger advocates for agriculture and help create positive connections between producers and consumers.
In addition to educational presentations, the conference will offer valuable networking opportunities. Attendees will be able to connect with fellow agricultural professionals, share experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges and opportunities. Building professional relationships can help create new partnerships, encourage collaboration, and support personal and professional growth.
The conference also includes activities designed to enhance the overall experience for participants. Training sessions, refreshments, and meal opportunities will allow attendees to interact in both formal and informal settings. These experiences are intended to encourage conversation, strengthen relationships, and create an engaging environment for learning.
Organizers emphasize that the event goes beyond traditional educational programs by offering practical information that participants can immediately apply within their organizations, businesses, and local communities. The sessions are designed to address real-world agricultural topics and provide actionable ideas that can help individuals become more effective communicators and leaders.
“Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Cultivate and Connect Conference goes above and beyond other training opportunities,” said District 1 P&E Representative Ashley Schlender. “Cultivate and Connect is packed with fresh sessions tailored to real-life agriculture.”
Another important goal of the conference is to encourage continued involvement in agriculture and community outreach initiatives. By equipping participants with new knowledge and resources, the event supports efforts to increase awareness of agriculture and strengthen public trust in the industry. Strong connections between agricultural producers and consumers can help create greater appreciation for the work farmers do every day.
The Cultivate and Connect Conference reflects the ongoing commitment of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau to support agricultural education, leadership development and community engagement. Through programs like this, Farm Bureau continues to provide opportunities for members to grow professionally while contributing to the future success of agriculture.
As agriculture continues to evolve, events that encourage learning, collaboration, and innovation remain important. Conferences like Cultivate and Connect help participants stay informed, develop valuable skills and build relationships that can benefit both their careers and the broader agricultural community for years to come.
To Register and learn more about Cultivate & Connect visit: wfbf.com/events/cultivate-and-connect.
Photo Credit: wisconsin-farm-bureau
Categories: Wisconsin, Business