Session Abstract:
There’s a lot of buzz around how AI and IoT are shaking things up in precision agriculture. We’ve heard the big promises: skyrocketing crop yields, smooth automated farm ops, and deep data insights, all pushing for a game-changer in our food chain’s value. But let’s be real – there’s a gap between the shiny tech brochures and what’s happening on the ground. In this panel, we’ll get down to the nitty-gritty. We’ll share real-deal case studies where AI and IoT came through, and times when they… well, didn’t. We’ll talk hurdles, those sneaky gaps in the current scene, and the real risks of betting big on tech. So, if you’re keen to sift through the hype and get a genuine look at how AI and IoT are (or aren’t) revolutionizing our food game, this is the spot. We’ve got tech heads, farm pros, and everyone in between ready to give you the lowdown. Let’s unpack this together.
Speakers:
Alina Piddubna, AgriTech Portfolio Manager, Data & AI/ML Practice Delivery Lead, IT Program Manager in Intellias with 15 years of experience in managing IT Programs, Projects and Portfolios, M&A programs, organizational change management and business development in Agriculture, Retail & Financial sectors. Including: • Managing digital transformation and advanced technology programs, M&A programs, solution development and IT infrastructure projects from ideation to ITSM, setting up project & program governance, application of tailored methodology • Managing project portfolios, business development and strategic partnerships • Leading advanced technology delivery practices • PhD in Managing Enterprises, PMP, PMI-ACP
Sebastian Villegas, 12 years experience in the protein production field. Mechatronic Eng, with and MBA from the University of Bath (UK). Currently I am Asimetrix COO, a Colombian company focused on unlocking the power of data in the protein production industry (🐖, 🐓,🥚) through analytics, AI and IoT devices (Smartfarm) for capturing data from productive farms, such as: humidity, temperature, light, and pigs weight with our PigVision technology.
John Gottula, PhD, is an agtech innovator with an applied crop science background and a passion for analytics. Holding a doctorate from Cornell University, John formerly directed crop biotechnology studies and led global agronomic development programs. John is the co-creator of #AgileAg, a movement to link agile processes with crop science to drive analytics adoption in the agriculture industry.
Volodymyr Demkiv is an accomplished IT professional having 16+ years of experience in solution development services, with a specific focus on the Internet of Things (IoT) applications for the Facility Management, Agriculture, and Manufacturing sectors. Volodymyr’s proven record of successful project deliveries powered with a deep understanding of IoT principles and the latest advancements in the field, enable him to translate complex business requirements into practical IoT solutions. Having combined passion for technology and commitment to client success, Volodymyr helps organizations across the globe embrace on their digital transformation journey and optimize processes with the power of connected devices.
John Mann is passionate about sustainable, resilient agriculture and how technology can play a part. Currently serving as a program manager at Grand Farm, John excels in seamlessly integrating startups and investors into the flourishing Grand Farm ecosystem, driving innovation and collaboration within the agricultural technology sector. With a rich background as a former associate at Plug & Play Agtech Center, he met with over 400 agtech startups from around the world, facilitated strategic matchmaking with large Ag groups, and invested in two early stage startups.
Key Takeaways


Published! This #IoTCommunity IoT Grand Slam Live Precision Agriculture IoTCoE Panel. Join Alina Piddubna & @VolodymyrDemkiv @intellias; John Gottula @SASsoftware, John Mann @TheGrandFarm and Sebastián Villegas @Asimetrix

It has been a real challenge understanding how we can take the data to make real action on the farm. In the beginning we were collecting and analyzing the data.however there are real good uses for example health. AI can monitor the weight gain of animals to make sure the livestock is growing well in real time. Sebastián Villegas @Asimetrix

When thinking about the number one Precision Agriculture tool it is yield monitors. That is a necessary thing to understand how much food is being produced. Is that due to lack of farmer capital or insufficient paypact period in a slow growth industry? John Gottula @SASsoftware

Digital agriculture is expected to dramatically change how we grow our food. It is not a fairytale but rather a reality. AI has the potential to almost double our yield in the next twenty years. Alina Piddubna @intellias

For a while I thought some of the challenges in agriculture were unique but you find out that the farmers don’t want automated tractors as that is one of the fun elements of the job. When looking at implementing new technologies you need to understand farmer’s mindset in assisting them to become better. John Mann @TheGrandFarm


