Kick Off the Convention with Alex Weber

The convention opens Wednesday morning with “The Unstoppable You,” presented by award-winning keynote speaker Alex Weber.

An NBC television host, champion coach, acclaimed author, and the only person to both host and compete on American Ninja Warrior, Weber is known for combining high-energy storytelling with practical strategies that audiences can immediately put into action.

Having inspired more than 5.5 million people worldwide, Weber has worked with organizations including Amazon, Apple, Fidelity, LinkedIn, RE/MAX, and the Los Angeles Lakers. During his keynote, attendees will discover how to embrace change, overcome challenges, and develop the mindset needed to thrive in today’s fast-changing business environment.

Whether you’re leading a company, managing a team, or navigating industry change, this opening session promises to leave you energized and ready to make the most of the convention.

Gain a Clearer View of the Economy

On Thursday morning, Patrick Luce and Jeremy Bess, Principal Economists with Stantec Consulting Services, return to provide one of the convention’s most anticipated educational sessions.

Known for making complex economic topics engaging and easy to understand, Luce and Bess deliver practical insights that help business leaders look beyond the headlines and prepare for what’s ahead.

Their presentation will examine the economic forces shaping the farm equipment manufacturing industry, including:

• Trends influencing domestic demand
• The financial health of U.S. businesses and consumers
• Material, labor, and production cost pressures
• Business cycle trends that can help companies better plan for the future

Drawing on Stantec’s unique experience advising both the public and private sectors, the pair will provide actionable strategies to help FEMA members anticipate challenges, identify opportunities, and make informed business decisions.

Don’t Miss the FEMA AgTech Arena Pitch Contest

Innovation takes center stage Wednesday evening during the inaugural FEMA AgTech Arena Pitch Contest, presented by FEMA’s Technology Council.

Presented by FEMA’s Technology Council, the new AgTech Arena Pitch Contest will debut on Wednesday, October 28, during the Marketing & Distribution Convention in New Orleans. This exciting competition will give convention attendees the opportunity to hear directly from the innovators developing tomorrow’s agricultural technologies.

Startups specializing in AgTech, precision agriculture, and farm equipment innovation will showcase their latest ideas and technologies in front of industry leaders and decision-makers. Attendees will discover groundbreaking solutions in precision agriculture, automation, robotics, sensors, artificial intelligence for machinery, and other emerging technologies shaping the future of the industry.

A panel of expert judges will evaluate each presentation and select the Grand Prize Winner, while convention attendees will have the opportunity to cast their votes for the Fan Favorite Award.

Interested in showcasing your innovation? The Call for Abstracts will be announced soon. Startups and emerging technology companies will be invited to submit their ideas for a chance to pitch on the AgTech Arena stage. Stay tuned to the Shortliner for more details.

Don’t miss your opportunity to learn from nationally recognized speakers, connect with industry leaders, and experience the future of agricultural equipment—all in one event.

Register today at FarmEquip.org/meetings/fall and join us October 27–29 at the New Orleans Marriott. We look forward to seeing you in the Big Easy!