How AI & Smart Tech Are Changing Farming, Tech Hub Live 2026 and What Ag Retailers Need

In this special edition of Crop Life Retail Week recorded live at Tech Hub Live 2026 in Des Moines, Iowa, host CropLife Editor Eric Sfiligoj is joined by co-host Amy Asmus, Co-Owner of Asmus Farm Supply and special guest April Hemmes, Owner of Hemmes Farms. Together, they dive deep into the real-world adoption of ag technology—moving from office management to in-field efficiency. From the rapid shift to auto-steer technology to the rise of AI spreadsheets, targeted spraying, and data privacy concerns, Hemmes shares what growers actually need from their ag retailers. Stay up to date with the latest insights in crop protection, ag retail, and agricultural innovation from CropLife Magazine. We bring you expert interviews, product spotlights, and in-depth coverage of precision ag, sustainable farming, ag tech, and more.Visit our website: https://www.croplife.comSubscribe for more ag retail news and updates.#AgTech #PrecisionAg #SmartFarming #Agriculture #farmtech 00:00 - Introduction & Tech Hub Live 202601:31 - AgTech Adoption: Office vs. In the Field03:36 - The "Auto-Steer Effect" & Tech Usability06:39 - Next-Gen AgTech: Sprayers & Farm Value09:06 - AI on the Farm & Data Privacy Concerns13:16 - How Ag Retailers Can Better Support Farmers14:23 - Collaboration Between Developers & Growers17:31 - Wrap-Up & Closing Remarks