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Farmers Embrace Tech to Overcome Labor Shortages
Automation and autonomous machines become essential as farmers struggle to find workers, expert says.
Feb. 6, 2026 at 8:31am
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According to technology observer Willie Vogt, farmers are increasingly turning to technology like automation, autonomous machines, drones, and AI to overcome labor shortages. Vogt told the Crop Insurance and Reinsurance Bureau that farmers are using more technology because "we don't have anyone to work for us anymore." He discussed a range of emerging ag tech developments, from autonomous grain handling to laser-powered weed identification.
Why it matters
The adoption of new agricultural technologies is being driven by the ongoing labor crisis facing the farming industry. As it becomes harder for farmers to find workers, they are looking to automate more tasks and leverage autonomous equipment to maintain productivity. This shift could have significant implications for the future of farming and rural communities.
The details
Vogt, a former executive at Farm Progress, outlined several examples of how farmers are using technology to address labor shortages. This includes autonomous grain handling machines to improve safety, lasers that can identify weeds to reduce herbicide use, and drones for more efficient spraying. He also discussed the potential for tractors powered by solar energy, though noted challenges around the size of the required solar panels. Vogt emphasized that farmers of all ages need to be ready to adopt the latest technologies, as landlords may start evaluating tenants based on their use of innovative farming tools.
- Vogt spoke at the Crop Insurance and Reinsurance Bureau annual meeting in Indian Wells, California on February 6, 2026.
The players
Willie Vogt
A Minneapolis-based writer and technology observer who previously served as the executive director of content and user engagement for Farm Progress.
Crop Insurance and Reinsurance Bureau
An industry group that held its annual meeting in Indian Wells, California where Vogt spoke about the increasing use of agricultural technology.
What they’re saying
“We don't have anyone to work for us anymore.”
— Willie Vogt, Technology observer
What’s next
As farmers continue to grapple with labor shortages, the adoption of new technologies like automation and autonomous equipment is likely to accelerate. Industry experts will be closely watching to see how this technological transformation impacts the future of farming and rural communities.
The takeaway
The growing reliance on agricultural technology is a direct response to the ongoing labor crisis facing the farming industry. By embracing innovations like autonomous machines and AI-powered tools, farmers are finding ways to maintain productivity and profitability despite the challenges of attracting and retaining workers.
