Kansas Corn Symposium Looks to the Future at Annual Event Jan. 29

Kansas Corn Symposium Looks to the Future at Annual Event Jan. 29

Kansas corn farmers have plenty of reasons to mark their calendars for Thursday, January 29, when the 2026 Kansas Corn Symposium returns to the Hilton Garden Inn in Salina. The premier event for Kansas corn growers, this year's Symposium begins with lunch and a keynote speaker on artificial intelligence, followed by the Kansas Corn Growers Association annual meeting, updates on policy and programs, a reception, dinner and some after-dinner fun.

The day kicks off with registration at 11:30 a.m., followed by the Kansas Corn Lunch where attendees can network and prepare for a full afternoon and evening. After lunch, the Symposium dives into its keynote session featuring Steve Lerch, former Google executive and AI expert. Lerch, a nationally-recognized speaker on artificial intelligence will help producers understand how AI can be an easy-to-use tool on their farms.

"We are bringing one of the nation's top artificial intelligence experts to the Kansas Corn Symposium. Whether you're on the fence about AI or are already using it, you won't want to miss this session with AI expert Steve Lerch," said Kansas Corn CEO Josh Roe. "You'll walk away with a better understanding of artificial intelligence, and AI tools you can use on the farm and in your everyday life."

Kansas Corn Growers Association (KCGA) members will then gather for the KCGA Annual Meeting, where they will review and approve 2026 resolutions and elect board members for the northwest, north central and northeast districts.

Attendees will also hear important policy and program updates from both the Kansas Corn Commission (KCC) and KCGA, including the latest on issues like E15, trade, and farm programs, as well as updates on market development and education efforts.

At the Kansas Corn reception, growers can enjoy snacks and a beverage while visiting with corn researchers, industry partners and cooperators. The day wraps up with the Kansas Corn Dinner, as Kansas Corn celebrates its accomplishments and honors the Kansas Corn Yield Contest winners. Attendees are invited to stay for Singo, a fun, music-themed version of bingo. Expect plenty of laughs, music, and prizes.

The Kansas Corn Symposium is offered at no cost, thanks to support from sponsors. Participants are encouraged to stay for the Kansas Commodity Classic the next day, Friday, Jan. 30, also at the Salina Hilton Garden Inn. Preregistration is recommended to help with meal counts and logistics at kscorn.com/symposium