INA, Ill. (April 11, 2025) — Bo Brockett (Benton), a sophomore in agriculture business, has fully embraced the On-Farm Precision Experimentation (OFPE) program, receiving hands-on experience with cutting-edge agricultural technology.
The OFPE program was created to provide students in agricultural technology programs with hands-on experience in research, technology applications and data management systems. This program was specifically designed to enhance new Ag Technology departments across the United States, and Rend Lake College was one of six colleges selected to participate.
On March 2, Brockett presented his research trial to the OFPE team in Denver, Colo. His research focused on soybean populations in Southern Illinois, and was conducted on an 80-acre field in Zeigler. The trial aimed to understand how different soybean populations fared under typical Southern Illinois weather conditions. As part of his project, Brockett designed scripts for planting and harvesting, and he communicated with local farmers to ensure that the trial would be a success.
Bo Brockett presenting in Denver, Colo.
"It is very rare for undergraduates, especially at junior colleges, to do research projects, and I'm very grateful that I was able to participate in one," said Brockett. "This project gave me insights into future career options like research and product development."
Along with taking part in the OFPE program, Brockett and Blake Patton, Director of RLC's Agronomy Innovation Center & Land Lab Supervisor, attended the 2025 Commodity Classic, a major agricultural trade show. Brockett was able to explore a wide variety of precision technologies and discover new opportunities within the agriculture sector.
“Bo’s exposure to the abundance of precision technology at the Commodity Classic left him amazed,” said Patton. “He got to see the vast number of companies and opportunities he has within the field of agriculture.”
Bo Brockett at the 2025 Commodity Classic
"The OFPE program was a great opportunity for me, especially since I got a lot of experience with different types of technology I am not accustomed to," said Brockett. "I am very grateful that Rend Lake College is able to give these opportunities to their students. I would recommend it [OFPE program] to any student who wants research experience while at Rend Lake College."
By fully embracing the opportunities provided by RLC and the OFPE program, Brockett has not only enhanced his skills and knowledge, but also set a new standard for future students pursuing careers in agriculture.
