By Andi Anderson
Across Indiana, agriculture is rapidly changing as farmers increasingly rely on data, technology, and artificial intelligence to make daily decisions.
From checking weather conditions to analyzing yield maps, modern farming now blends experience with advanced digital tools. Purdue University is helping lead this transformation through the Institute for Digital and Advanced Agricultural Systems, known as IDAAS.
Founded to position Purdue as a global leader in digital agriculture, IDAAS brings together experts from agronomy, agricultural and biological engineering, data science, economics, and other disciplines.
More than 120 faculty and staff across the university are engaged in the institute’s work, creating a people focused network designed to deliver practical solutions for producers.
In just one year, IDAAS has reached thousands through programs, workshops, and outreach activities. “We have reached thousands of participants through IDAAS programs, events and outreach activities,” Ciampitti said. “These numbers represent producers exploring drone technology for the first time, educators integrating AI into classrooms and students discovering careers they didn’t know existed.”
One major area of impact has been drone technology. IDAAS supported 1,373 drone demonstrations, allowing farmers and students to see how aerial imaging and precision scouting can detect crop stress quickly and accurately. These tools help producers move toward more efficient site-specific management.
IDAAS is also improving livestock systems through genomic data integration, sensors, and real time monitoring. These technologies help track animal health, improve feed efficiency, reduce waste, and support animal welfare.
Education and workforce development remain central priorities. IDAAS delivered 270 classroom workshops and connected with more than 1,100 K through 12 students.
At the college level, AI powered tools and real production data are now being used directly in coursework. A digital agriculture symposium and a new graduate course focused on research in the era of AI have further expanded learning opportunities.
IDAAS outreach also includes food safety sensors, traceability tools, and adoption research. “Technology that will be adopted cannot be developed in isolation; it must be tested, refined and evaluated in context,” Buckmaster said.
Looking ahead, IDAAS will continue expanding demonstrations, partnerships, and training, while preparing Indiana to host the national AI in Agriculture Conference in 2028.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Indiana, Education