Blending Tradition and Technology: The HiTech Farmer’s Story

Sep 4

In the world of modern agriculture, the balance between honoring tradition and embracing innovation has never been more important. Few embody this balance better than Matthias Kunerth—HiTech Farmer, a fifth-generation producer from southwest Minnesota.

Matthias farms corn and soybeans alongside his family while also working as a sales representative for Dekalb and John Deere, two of the most trusted names in agriculture. He adds another layer of innovation to his operation through his drone service business, showcasing how technology can increase efficiency, reduce input costs, and promote sustainability on the farm.

His journey provides a glimpse into what it means to be a young farmer in today’s fast-changing industry—where generational wisdom meets precision agriculture.

Farming with Technology: From GPS to Drones

Matthias is passionate about technology and how it transforms the day-to-day work of farming. From GPS-guided planters to autonomous tractors and drone spraying, his farm demonstrates the value of tools that not only save time but also maximize yields and minimize environmental impact.

GPS & Precision Agriculture: Farmers today can apply seed and fertilizer with pinpoint accuracy, saving money while improving sustainability. Learn more from Iowa State University Extension’s resources on precision ag.
Drone Applications: Matthias runs a drone spraying operation, giving farmers access to tools that improve coverage and reduce chemical waste. The FAA’s agriculture drone guidance highlights how unmanned aerial systems are reshaping modern production.
Autonomous Tractors: Companies like John Deere are pushing the frontier of driverless tractors—machines that may soon become a regular sight in farm fields.

These innovations highlight how technology is bridging the gap between efficiency and sustainability, creating farms that can adapt to a changing climate while remaining profitable.

Building a Digital Audience to Tell the Story of Ag

Outside the field, Matthias is known as HiTech Farmer, where his social media presence has attracted nearly 80,000 followers across platforms. His content ranges from time-lapse planting videos to behind-the-scenes drone spraying operations.

By comparing how his father and grandfather farmed with the tools available today, Matthias makes farming accessible and relatable to a wider audience. This type of digital storytelling not only educates the public but also inspires younger generations to consider careers in agriculture.

For more farmer storytelling, check out our conversation with Brian Scott—The Farmer’s Life on the Farm4Profit Podcast, where we explore how social media connects farmers with the world.

Financing the Farm as a Young Producer

One of the biggest challenges for young farmers is financing and managing risk. Matthias shares how he structures his farm’s finances, from equipment investments to crop marketing strategies. His approach is a blend of traditional family guidance and new financial tools designed for today’s producers.

For example, tools like crop insurance and precision input management help protect profitability. For more insights, our episode on farmer retirement and financial planning explores the bigger financial picture in agriculture.

Carrying the Torch Forward

At its core, Matthias’ story is about carrying forward a family legacy while embracing the innovations that will define the future of agriculture. By farming with his family, integrating new technologies, and sharing his journey online, Matthias is both preserving tradition and pushing farming into the digital age.

To wrap up the episode, we played a lighthearted game of Start, Bench, Cut—debating the merits of autonomous tractors, drone spraying, and GPS-guided planters. The answers gave listeners a mix of humor, perspective, and forward-looking optimism.