Purdue Students Lead AgTech Innovation

By Andi Anderson

Purdue University students are bringing fresh energy to agricultural technology with the launch of the first Symposium of Digital Agriculture (SyDAg) and Hackathon Weekend.

Organized under the Institute for Digital and Advanced Agricultural Systems, these student-led events are designed to turn innovative ideas into real-world impact while connecting students, researchers, and industry leaders.

The weekend begins with a hackathon on Saturday, October 18, at 225 S University Street, Room ABE1164. Teams will collaborate for two days to create solutions that make digital agriculture more user-friendly and accessible for farmers.

Projects will be judged, and cash prizes awarded to the top three teams. Organizers emphasize that the hackathon is open to all students who are eager to explore creative, technology-driven solutions for agriculture.

On Monday, October 20, the SyDAg symposium will take place at Purdue’s France A. Córdova Recreational Sports Center. This free, one-day event will feature keynote remarks from Purdue President Mung Chiang and College of Agriculture Dean Bernie Engle.

Attendees will learn about emerging trends, industry innovations, and career pathways in digital agriculture through presentations from faculty, entrepreneurs, and industry experts.

The symposium also offers an interactive poster session for both in-person and remote participants. Students and researchers submitting abstracts and posters through Purdue e-Pubs will compete for cash prizes based on innovation, impact, and presentation quality. Remote presenters will share short video presentations and receive participation certificates.

Student organizers, including a diverse team of leaders across agricultural disciplines, worked with faculty mentors to create an event that supports young professionals and aspiring changemakers.

Sponsors include major industry partners such as Corteva Agriscience, Bayer Crop Science, John Deere, Beck’s, CNH, Indiana Corn Marketing Council, and Indiana Soybean Alliance.

By blending education, collaboration, and real-time problem solving, SyDAg and Hackathon Weekend aim to inspire the next generation of researchers and leaders in digital agriculture.

Purdue organizers hope these events will become an annual tradition that keeps the university at the forefront of ag-tech innovation.

Photo Credit: purdue-university