URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) — The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is set to showcase the cutting edge of agricultural research, technology, and education at the 2025 Farm Progress Show in Decatur. Visitors to the College of ACES and Illinois Extension tent, will experience the university’s land-grant mission in action.

From robot dogs and drone demos to virtual reality farm safety training and soil archive projects, this year’s exhibit offers a hands-on look at the tools and knowledge driving the future of farming.

“These demonstrations, educational materials, and conversations embody our land-grant mission,” said Germán Bollero, Dean of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES). “We’re bringing the best of innovation from the University of Illinois to the Farm Progress Show to help farmers, families, and communities thrive.”

Leadership Meet-and-Greets
Attendees can connect with Dean Bollero, Chancellor Charles Lee Isbell Jr., and Illinois Extension Director Matthew Vann during special meet-and-greet sessions on Tuesday, August 26, from 10–11 a.m. and 2:30–3:30 p.m.

Illinois Extension’s Todd Gleason will moderate panels on hot topics in ag, including:

  • The Future of Ag Innovation – Featuring U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski and Illinois leaders
  • Biomanufacturing & New Markets for Crops
  • Weed Management & Policy in a Changing Landscape
  • Digital Tools & AI in Farming

Panelists will be available for interviews following each session.

Interactive Exhibits & Demonstrations

  • Next-Gen Ag Tech: See drone sprayers, cover crop robots, and more
  • VR Farm Safety Training: Step into a virtual farm for hands-on learning
  • Illinois Soil Archive Project: Landowners can participate in a $5,000 soil analysis effort
  • Sustainable Practices: Explore conservation techniques from windbreaks to pollinator habitats

Spotlight on Youth & Lifelong Learning

  • 4-H & FFA Youth can explore career pathways and programs
  • 4-H Alumni can reconnect and pick up a commemorative tote
  • ACES Online offers adults flexible learning options to advance their careers

For more information or to arrange interviews with university leadership, contact Claire Benjamin, ACES Director of Communications, at 217-244-0941 or claire@illinois.edu.