MAAE Ag Tech Conference

Post-Secondary Summit

Join post-secondary educators from across Minnesota in Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (AFNR) and related fields for the Post-Secondary Summit 2025, sponsored by the Minnesota State Agricultural Centers of Excellence. Held during the Minnesota Association of Agricultural Educators (MAAE) Winter Ag Tech Conference, this engaging annual event provides opportunities for professional development, networking, and valuable insights to inspire and equip educators to advance their careers and programs.

Event Details:

  • Date: January 17, 2025
  • Time: Begins at 2:00 PM
  • Location: Best Western Plus/Kelly Inn, St. Cloud, MN – HOTEL RESERVATIONS

Highlights of the Summit:

  • Keynote Address: Cowboy Poet Ryan Taylor brings a unique perspective as a rancher, family man, former state senator, and USDA Rural Development state director. Now serving as the public policy director for Ducks Unlimited, Taylor shares insights and stories from his diverse experiences.
  • Workshop on AI Implementation: Led by Dr. Dan Emery, explore how AI can simplify and enhance teaching by streamlining tasks, finding lesson plans, and engaging students. This workshop focuses on practical applications, helping educators integrate AI effectively into their classrooms, teach students its appropriate use, and save time while fostering positive, impactful learning experiences.
  • Industry Insights Panel: Join a dynamic discussion featuring representatives from General Mills, Hormel, and the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR), moderated by Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. Gain valuable perspectives on trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping agriculture, food, and natural resources.
  • Networking Supper: Enjoy a delicious meal while connecting with peers and industry professionals in a relaxed and engaging setting.
  • Escape Room Workshop: Join Caleb Curfman for this interactive Escape Room workshop. Bring your laptop and dive into a fun, hands-on experience designed to challenge and engage!

MAAE Members

MAAE members, please register for the Ag Tech Conference through the MAAE website using the designated link. If you plan to attend both the conference and the Post-Secondary Summit, be sure to also use the additional summit registration link to complete your registration.

NON-MAAE Members

Use only the provided link to register for the Post-Secondary Summit if you plan to attend only the summit:

The Summit is presented in partnership with the Minnesota State Agricultural Centers of Excellence, the University of Minnesota College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS), and the Minnesota Association of Agricultural Educators (MAAE).

For any questions about the Summit, please reach out to Tyler Grunewald, 218.894.5141 or via email at [email protected].