The media group will also film, edit and produce a video documentary that will entertain, educate and inspire the industry about the accomplishments and mission of FEMA. Both projects will debut to attendees at the 2025 Marketing & Distribution Convention, and later to the entire industry through Lessiter Media鈥檚 ag division properties.

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This special edition features:
A dedicated article on FEMA鈥檚 75-year legacy
Member tributes and industry reflections
Debut distribution at the FEMA Convention in Las Vegas this October
Mailed circulation to 12,400+ industry professionals

Reserve your ad space by August 29! Contact Mike Lessiter at mlessiter@lessitermedia.com or call 262-777-4403.

Blog by Marc Ivey, District Manager at Bush Hog

My personal interaction with FEMA started in the early 2000s. I was a young engineer/product development leader looking to expand my professional network and learn about the next best thing in ag technology that would help me help my firm develop a better mousetrap. For the past 20-plus years, I鈥檝e been blessed to meet and make hundreds of connections through my FEMA interactions. Manufacturing and distribution partnerships have developed out of those connections, as well as new component suppliers being added to my company’s vendor list.

Lifelong friendships with many of those FEMA connections are truly the highlight of my experience with the association and I look forward to many more in the years to come.

Thank goodness we can celebrate 75 years with FEMA in the life and fabric of agriculture. I shudder to think what 鈥渕ight not have been鈥� if those early ag leaders had not taken a chance on creating a voice for small manufacturers.

I am excited to be part of today鈥檚 FEMA. With challenges at every turn, we can rest assured knowing that together we are stronger because of the bonds created by this association.

Here鈥檚 to the next 75 years of FEMA 鈥� may it be as transforming and impactful for agriculture as the first 75 years have been.

Join the Conversation! Email your answer to the question: “What would be the industry impact had FEMA never come to exist?” to MLessiter@lessitermedia.com.

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Key pieces of this special collaboration include a comprehensive history book on the association that highlights the significance of the organization and its independent shortline members and their innovations. The media group will also film, edit and produce a video documentary that will entertain, educate and inspire the industry about the accomplishments and mission of FEMA. Both projects will debut to attendees at the 2025 Fall Convention, and later to the entire industry through Lessiter Media鈥檚 ag division properties.

For FEMA president Craig Harthoorn, this opportunity is about honoring the Association鈥檚 past, present and future.

鈥淎s we continue celebrating the 75th Anniversary of our association, we wanted to do something special to honor our past and those that have come before us, while also energizing current and prospective members as we look to the future,鈥� said Harthoorn. 鈥淎nd with Lessiter Media鈥檚 Farm 婷婷激情五月天, who鈥檝e been members since the magazine鈥檚 founding in 1970, FEMA has a trusted partner to create a lasting tribute that our members, and the entire industry, can forever enjoy.鈥�

Having already worked with numerous FEMA members to chronicle their company beginnings in the award-winning podcast series, 鈥�,鈥� a full-scale historical look at FEMA鈥檚 past 75 years 鈥� and the accomplishments of the independent, shortline manufacturers 鈥� is a passionate undertaking for Mike Lessiter, President of Lessiter Media.

鈥淲e are thrilled to be working with FEMA on this special project,鈥� said Lessiter, 鈥渁nd we understand the importance that comes with taking on a project of this significance and magnitude. As one who has served on the Board of Governors as well as the FEMA board, I鈥檝e seen first-hand the impact the Association has had, and continues to have, on the ag equipment industry. Our entire Custom Media Services team is excited to share this legacy content with the association, its members and the rest of the industry.鈥�

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Four-Day Immersion at the Luminary Hotel
Join us at the brand-new Luminary Hotel in downtown Fort Myers for four days of education, networking, and supplier connections. The Summit includes informative sessions, business meetings, and plenty of networking time. With stunning views and modern amenities, the Luminary Hotel offers the perfect space to learn, connect, and relax.

Steve Hathaway, FEMA Executive VP, emphasizes the value of the Summit for offering a unique opportunity to engage in conversations that inspire fresh ideas and solutions for industry challenges. 鈥淲ith the addition of the new dedicated Technology Track, attendees will dive into cutting-edge innovations that can directly impact and drive their business forward.鈥�

Focused Learning: Industry Insights and Practical Takeaways
This year鈥檚 conference, Waves of Innovation, covers key industry topics designed to give you real, actionable insights. We鈥檒l dive into information-packed sessions like Effective Leadership in High-Stress Situations, Learning from Legacies, AI Tools for Ag Success, The Farmer鈥檚 Buying Journey, and more. Plus, we鈥檙e introducing a brand-new Technology Track, where we鈥檒l explore emerging technologies that are shaping the future of products and services. You鈥檒l walk away with valuable knowledge that you can apply right away to make smarter business decisions.

Driving Innovation: NEW! Technology Track
This one-day, standalone program is separate from the main convention, designed for engineers, product managers, chief commercial officers, business development leaders, and anyone else whose career-focus is on emerging technologies. We鈥檒l explore how these technologies are shaping the future of products and services with a strong emphasis on how technology drives efficiency, innovation, and growth in your business. You鈥檒l walk away with valuable insights that you can apply immediately to make even better business decisions.

Supplier Product Showcase: April 9, 2025
One of the key highlights of the Summit is the Supplier Product Showcase on April 9. Booth space is limited and assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. With early interest running high, we encourage suppliers to register soon to secure their spot. The showcase offers an excellent opportunity to connect with existing partners and explore new business opportunities.

Engaging Networking Opportunities and Fun Activities
We鈥檝e lined up a variety of exciting networking events, including a Topgolf outing, walk/run, spouse/guest tour, Cornhole tournament, and farewell musical celebration. Attendees will have ample opportunities to unwind, connect with peers, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Fort Myers. Stay tuned for more details.

Explore Fort Myers: A Great Place to Connect and Learn
Fort Myers, Florida, offers a unique blend of outdoor attractions, history, and local culture. Whether you鈥檙e relaxing on the beaches, visiting museums, playing on premier golf courses or exploring the city鈥檚 rich history, Fort Myers has something for everyone. From waterfront dining to boutique shopping and opportunities to explore nearby islands, the city provides a refreshing setting to step away from daily operations, connect with peers, and gain fresh perspectives.

Don鈥檛 miss this chance to gain valuable industry insights, make meaningful connections, and discover new opportunities. We look forward to seeing you in Fort Myers!

To register, visit or contact our office at (314) 878-2304. We can’t wait to see you there!