Advancing Ag Tech: AEM Encourages Member Participation in 2026 AEF Plugfest

As the use of cutting-edge technology continues to grow and evolve within the equipment manufacturing industry, it's becoming increasingly important for organizations to participate in and support the semi-annual Plugfest events organized by the Agricultural Industry Electronics Foundation (AEF).

Held every spring and fall, alternatively in the United States and in Europe, AEF Plugfests bring together representatives from dozens of ag equipment manufacturers to test the compatibility of their product offerings against each other. AEM is pleased to support the 2026 Spring Plugfest, set for March 16-April 18, at the Westin Milwaukee in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Interested in participating in the next event? Registration is now open.

"It's inspiring to see agricultural electronics engineers from competing companies come together at AEF Plugfest events and collaborate on solutions for the entire industry," said Austin Gellings, AEM's senior director of agriculture services and AEF secretary. "AEM's role within AEF is to champion the priorities of North American agriculture-supporting the needs of both equipment manufacturers and the farmers who rely on them."

In addition to bringing together engineers to assess tractor-implement compatibility between a variety of different brands (so as to ensure there are no problems or glitches for consumers trying to match the products up in the field), Plugfests also offer opportunities for networking between industry professionals. Real-time adjustments are often made by Plugfest participants to ensure product compatibility, while other situations require more work back at the company to complete any necessary changes.

AEM is a proud founding member of AEF and serves as the organization's secretary, representing North America and helping ensure interoperability of equipment around the world. Back in 2007, AEM recognized the need for a dedicated organization to lead agriculture equipment interoperability, and therefore helped support the establishment of AEF.

AEF encourages AEM members and agriculture equipment manufacturers to get involved in AEF and participate in Plugfest events.

For more information on the spring event, contact AEM's Austin Gellings [email protected].