Tennessee

TN was represented by three farmers and four TN AgrAbility team members at the 2026 National AgrAbility Training Workshop. Despite severe winter storms, the event showcased resilience and adaptability throughout the United States. Eileen Legault, TN AgrAbility area specialist with UT TSU Extension, used technology via ZOOM for TN AgrAbility farmer Jason Barber @Farming Blind with Duck to present due to travel being disrupted to inclement weather. Jason represented TN well through his presentation "Farming Using AI".

National AgrAbility is celebrating 35 years of AgrAbility's impact and the role of assistive technology in keeping farmers farming. Featured were hands-on demonstrations ranging from low-cost tools to advanced apps, AI, and wearable tech. Special thanks to Tess McKeel and JoBeth Rath of Goodwill, National AgrAbility, and Michigan AgrAbility for their flexibility and amazing hospitality.

Thirty farmers joined TNAP on March 27 in Bedford County for a meaningful day of connection, practical solutions, and support for farmers of all abilities. TN AgrAbility staff/partners were grateful to Matthew Deist, Bedford County Extension director, for hosting the event and for his grilling techniques. Matthew approached TN AgrAbility in 2025 seeking solutions to help farmers with back issues.

It was a powerful time to share experiences and highlight the work of TN AgrAbility. Jason Barber of @Farming Blind with Duck inspired everyone with his story-sharing how AI tools like ChatGPT help him "see" and continue cattle farming. Hosting the event in his hometown made the day even more special. Participants explored hands-on assistive technology demonstrations, including tractor adaptations, UTV and skid steer access, cattle handling systems, mobility equipment, and ergonomic garden tools. A special thank you to Ned Stoller with Michigan AgrAbility for loaning the Apex 2 from Herowear and SuitX/Hilti passive exoskeletons, helping bring innovative solutions directly to our farming community. Farmers and vocational rehabilitation counselors learned about farming with new assistive technologies and exoskeletons to prevent future back injuries.

A new seven-month journey has begun for beginning farmers across the state with the kickoff session of Tennessee State University's signature program, the New Farmer Academy. It provides hands-on training, resources, and business development support. Led by TSU Extension's Finis Stribling III, TN AgrAbility's TSU PI, NFA will provide statewide classes across the state with TSU agents/coordinators Karla Gargus, Rylan Thompson, Whitney Simmons Jackson, and JoAnne Waterman. TSU New Farmer Academy is widely recognized as one of the nation's top beginning farmer programs. TN AgrAbility looks forward to following this year's class as they grow and succeed. TN AgrAbility sponsors up to 30 beginning farmers who have disabilities to attend.

TN AgrAbility, along with 4000+ TN FFA members, advisors, vendors, and guests stormed the convention center in Gatlinburg, TN. A sea of blue corduroy jackets was spotted for five days in the auditorium, meeting rooms, and streets. TN AgrAbility tested the FFA members' knowledge of dance moves, assistive technology, AgrAbility, exercise, axe throwing skills, and FFA/4-H at its booth. It has been rumored that it was one of the most popular exhibits at the convention.

Submitted by TN AgrAbility