Brandt Berghuis, a University of Wisconsin-River Falls assistant professor of crop science, introduces students to the ever-changing world of artificial intelligence.
Many tools require no more equipment than a smart phone, such as an app that students can use to identify plants and weeds in the field. For students to be ready for today’s agriculture jobs, they need to learn about these technologies as they emerge.
“Artificial intelligence is changing the field, not just on computers,” Berghuis said. “For us to get out to the field and see some of these things in action — one, it’s imperative, and two, it’s just fun for our students.”
Partners Give Students More Opportunities
In order to keep up with fast-changing technologies, and make sure students have the chance to work with them, Berghuis said staying connected to industry has been crucial, and UWRF alumni often play a central role.
An essential partner has been WinField United. They are a major provider of agricultural products, technology and other resources. Many UWRF alumni work at the company and are now helping provide current students with access to new technologies.
Carter Beaulieu, a 2024 UWRF agricultural business graduate, is an equipment specialist and seed lab technician at WinField United. He now works closely with UWRF interns and faculty. Technology helps his company deliver impactful, agronomic insights to retailers at the farm gate. He enjoys playing a role in giving students learning experiences like the ones that helped prepare him for his career.
“I enjoy talking about the new technologies emerging within the ag industry,” Beaulieu said. “AI being used in technologies like sprayers, drones, tractors, etc., makes for exciting conversations with the students.”
