Ag Tech, Automation, and the Future of Farming with Gustavo Dominguez

by marketing | Mar 20, 2025

I’ve worked in agriculture since I was 18, but my background is in mechanics and electrical work. I originally set out to find a job in mechanical repair when I stumbled upon the Ag Tech industry by accident. I joined a company that worked on automated farming equipment, and from there, I became more intrigued by how automation and autonomous systems were shaping the future of agriculture. It was an unexpected path, but one that led me to where I am today at Stout.

I first saw Stout’s Smart Cultivator in action while I was working for another company. What impressed me was how simple it was to operate—just press start and go. In contrast, the equipment I worked with at the time required extensive calibration and back-end adjustments before it could run properly. That ease of use was what initially attracted me to Stout. Eventually, I applied for a position, and when the opportunity arose, I joined the team.

As a Service & Production Technician, my day varies based on what machines come in for servicing. We receive work orders that outline what needs to be inspected or repaired. If I’m working on a machine from the previous day, I continue troubleshooting it. If a new unit arrives, I run through a detailed checklist to identify potential issues and ensure it’s running at peak performance.

Customer support is also a key part of my role. When growers reach out with issues, I assess the problem and help troubleshoot it remotely whenever possible. One thing I’ve learned is to never assume the issue upfront. Instead, I take the time to investigate first before giving an answer. That way, I can provide the most accurate diagnosis without jumping to conclusions.

From my experience, the biggest challenge growers face when adopting new Ag Tech is fear—fear of change, fear of technology, and fear of the unknown. Many growers have been using the same equipment and methods for years, and learning a new system can be daunting. In reality, many operational issues stem from driver error, rather than the technology itself. Some operators pick it up quickly, while others take longer to transition.

At Stout, we follow a thorough checklist to ensure every machine operates at its best in the field. This checklist is based on real-world experiences and allows us to proactively address potential issues before they become problems for customers. Many of us have worked with these machines long enough that we’ve memorized what to look for, but we still follow a structured process to maintain quality and reliability.

One of the most challenging aspects of my role has been working with Smart Powered Hydraulics (SPH) and the Stout Rate Fertilizer (SRF). Installing these systems on different machines presents a unique set of challenges that require a combination of mechanical and electrical expertise. At first, these installations were complex, but over time, they’ve become second nature with enough practice and repetition.

I don’t think Ag Tech will ever reach a point where machines are built and serviced entirely by robots. There will always be a need for skilled workers to maintain, repair, and improve these systems. The industry is shifting toward a more technical workforce, where hands-on technicians will play a crucial role in keeping automated equipment running efficiently. As Ag Tech continues to develop, I see an increased demand for specialized skills and new infrastructure to support this growing and evolving sector.

For those looking to enter the Ag Tech field, my advice is simple: be ready to move fast. This industry is constantly evolving, and staying adaptable is key. The more you learn about mechanics, electronics, and automation, the better prepared you’ll be for the opportunities ahead.

About Gustavo

Gustavo Dominguez is a Service & Production Technician at Stout, where he specializes in maintaining and troubleshooting automated farming equipment. With a background in mechanics and electrical work, he transitioned into Ag Tech after seeing the potential of automation to transform farming operations. Passionate about innovation, Gustavo is dedicated to helping growers adopt new technology with confidence while ensuring Stout’s Smart Cultivator and other systems operate at peak performance.

About Stout

Stout is at the forefront of agricultural innovation, specializing in precision implements and AI-driven solutions that enhance efficiency and productivity for growers. Committed to pushing the boundaries of agricultural technology, Stout continues to lead the way in developing advanced machinery for the farming community.

Navigating Ag Tech: A Journey of Adaptation and Innovation

by marketing | Feb 28, 2025

My journey into ag tech wasn’t exactly planned, but looking back, it makes perfect sense. Early in my career, I worked in operations where everything was done the old-school way—by hand, on paper, with little to no technology involved. Scheduling, field applications, fertilizer dispatch—all of it was manual. But then I got my first taste of technology in the industry. I saw what GPS monitoring and other digital tools could do, and it changed my perspective. It became clear that there was a huge opportunity to modernize these outdated processes. I realized that not only could technology make agriculture more efficient, but it could also open doors to new possibilities that hadn’t even been considered yet. That curiosity led me down the path I’m on today.

Agriculture is unpredictable. Weather, labor availability, and market fluctuations all impact day-to-day operations. As Director of Sales Operations, I’ve had to learn how to balance structured planning with the flexibility to pivot at a moment’s notice. This industry demands both—a clear vision of where you’re headed, but also the ability to react quickly when things don’t go as planned. It’s a leadership style that embraces adaptability while staying grounded in long-term goals.

One of the toughest parts of my role is navigating the natural resistance to change within agriculture. At the end of the day, this industry is about production—getting from seed to harvest as efficiently as possible. Introducing new technology, no matter how beneficial, can be seen as a disruption. Growers need to know that integrating something new won’t just be an extra step—it has to improve efficiency without negatively impacting their bottom line.

The biggest challenge isn’t just selling a piece of equipment—it’s shifting mindsets. Many farming practices have been done a certain way for generations, and now we’re asking people to trust a machine to do the work that’s historically been done by hand. That’s a big leap. To overcome this, we focus on proving the real-world benefits of the Stout Smart Cultivator—how it reduces labor challenges, provides immediate data for decision-making, and ultimately helps growers improve their operations.

Technology is touching every part of agriculture—from the field to the packing sheds to the sales office. At Stout, our focus is on using data-driven solutions to help growers make better, real-time decisions. Instead of reacting to issues after they’ve already impacted a crop, our goal is to provide insights that allow growers to adjust before it’s too late. That’s where the future of ag tech is headed: proactive, not reactive.

Innovation isn’t always easy, and pushing boundaries comes with its challenges. But what keeps our team motivated is the fact that we’re doing something new. We’re at the forefront of a movement that’s changing the way farming operates. There are days when things don’t go as planned, when frustrations run high, but in those moments, we remind ourselves why we’re here.

The ag tech space is full of exciting developments, but not all technology is useful today. Some innovations look great on paper but aren’t ready for practical application. Our job is to refine what we offer and ensure that it truly benefits the people who use it. That means listening to growers, understanding their needs, and adapting our solutions accordingly. It’s not about pushing technology—it’s about creating solutions that make sense in the real world.

If I had to pick one skill that’s essential for success in this space, it would be understanding growers. You need real-world experience to truly grasp what they’re up against—the pressures, the regulations, and the challenges they face every day. Without that understanding, it’s difficult to communicate how technology can help. The key isn’t telling them what they need—it’s listening to what they actually need and working with them to find the best solution.

Over the next five to ten years, I think we’ll see the true potential of ag tech start to unfold. Right now, there’s a lot of excitement, but not every new innovation will stand the test of time. The companies that stay focused, listen to their customers, and truly integrate into agriculture’s real-world challenges will be the ones that succeed. Adoption won’t happen overnight—it’s a gradual process. But as the technology matures and proves itself, we’ll see a shift toward more targeted, effective solutions that become essential tools for growers.

For me, that’s what makes this field so exciting. We’re not just creating technology for the sake of it—we’re solving real problems. And as long as we stay grounded in that mission, the impact we can make is limitless.

About Sal

Sal Espinoza is a dedicated leader in ag tech with a passion for innovation and problem-solving. With nearly a decade of experience in agriculture, he has held key roles at Wilbur-Ellis, FarmWise, and now Stout Industrial Technology, where he drives advancements in AI-powered automation for farming. Sal’s expertise lies in developing practical, grower-focused solutions that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and profitability in the field.

About Stout

A Day in the Life of Antonio: Stout’s Demo Technician

by marketing | Dec 23, 2024

I didn’t really plan to work in agriculture, it just kind of happened. I started as a tractor operator for Tanimura & Antle, learning the basics of running machines in the field. Before that, I had little experience working with machinery or doing fieldwork. Over two years, I became proficient with the equipment, but I wanted to do more. That’s what brought me to Stout.

When I joined Stout, I had to start from scratch with things like hydraulics and understanding the function of each part and how they’re all tied together. As an operator, I only knew how to make them run. Now, I’ve learned how to take them apart, fix issues, and put them back together. That’s been the biggest growth area for me in this role.

What My Job Looks Like

My week varies greatly on what demos we have lined up. If there are no demos scheduled, I focus on checking on our customers and their Stout machines. I make sure they’re running smoothly, help train new operators, answer questions, and fix any issues that come up. When there’s a demo, I make sure the machine is prepped to ensure a proper representation of our Smart Cultivator. Once everything is dialed in, I get to run and show the machine in action.

The best part of my job is troubleshooting and it’s rewarding when you find the solution. Once you’ve run into a similar problem a couple of times, familiarity with the issue reduces the time spent working on it and in turn allows the customer to continue with their normal operation. With over 50 machines deployed throughout North America and Europe, having the ability to troubleshoot over the phone is crucial for keeping our machines running smoothly for our grower partners.

Why Customers Appreciate Stout Machines

What impresses growers the most is how reliable our machines are. They’re built tough, so they can handle all kinds of field and weather conditions. From firsthand experience over the past four years, I’ve seen how well the machines perform once they’re set up properly – whether it’s day or night. Customers are always surprised by how well-built and reliable they are.

Traveling for Stout

One of the coolest things about my job is the travel. I’ve had the opportunity to work in 10 states and Mexico and Canada, meeting growers from all kinds of farming operations. It’s awesome seeing how people in different places get excited about our machines. In Mexico, I saw how much the technology would help their operations. Seeing how open they were to adapt to our machine and willing to change some of their farming practices to optimize the performance of it was eye opening.

My Advice for Someone Getting Into Ag Tech

If you’re considering a career in ag tech, give it a try. Whether it’s an internship or a short-term job, putting some skin in the game will help you gain experience and validate if it’s worth pursuing. It’s not always easy, but if you enjoy problem-solving and/or working with your hands, it’s worth it to make a difference in agriculture.

At Stout, we’re just getting started in ag tech. There’s a lot of potential, and it’s exciting to be part of something that’s helping farmers directly. For me, it’s been a chance to learn, grow, and to make a real impact in the industry.

About Antonio

Antonio is a Demo Technician at Stout, specializing in troubleshooting, machine operation, and operator training for the Smart Cultivator. Starting as a tractor operator at Tanimura & Antle, he has grown into a skilled technician, traveling to 10 states and two countries to help customers optimize their farming practices. With a customer-first approach and hands-on expertise, Antonio is proud to make a direct impact on farmers while contributing to the future of ag tech.

About Stout

Unlocking Efficiency: Insights from Garry, Production DevOps Engineer

by marketing | Sep 24, 2024

As the Production Development and Operations Engineer at Stout, I focus on one core objective: ensuring our cultivators operate with maximum efficiency. These machines are the heart of our business, and it’s my job to ensure they are operationally healthy and always performing at their peak. I like to think of them as my children—they demand attention, but it’s immensely satisfying knowing they are performing at their best.

My primary role is ensuring that our machines run the correct computer code and operate efficiently. I oversee everything from machine assembly to machine software management and updates, often troubleshooting issues that arise in the field. When machines are in use by our customers—whether on the East Coast, UK, or even Australia—I’m on standby and ready to respond.

However, I also wear many hats beyond machine assembly and management. I frequently dive into IT tasks, assembling computers, building servers, and even troubleshooting issues like office computer settings or email administration.

One of the most challenging issues I’ve faced recently was identifying and resolving a condition in our cultivators that would cause the actuators to pause unexpectedly. This situation would, of course, often occur during machine demos—frustrating, to say the least. After extensive analysis of the machines’ behavior, I finally discovered a pattern. It turned out that the issue was related to computer housekeeping tasks. These systems, originally designed for 24×7 surveillance cameras, were not optimized for the off-and-on cycles of our machines.

By adjusting the system to run housekeeping tasks in the first few minutes of operation rather than mid-cycle, we eliminated the problem. Now, the cultivators run smoothly with fewer interruptions, resulting in a much better experience for our customers.

Automation plays an essential role in my work. The ability to update machines while they’re in operation is a recent development that has saved me countless hours. Previously, we had to pause operations to apply computer code updates, causing downtime for our customers. Now, we push updates in the background, and they take effect the next time the machine is powered up.

As we continue to scale globally, with machines running across different time zones and continents, it’s vital that we build systems that can self-manage, allowing me and the company to focus on the bigger picture.

One area where I’ve pushed myself is backfilling my skill set with coding. While I’m not a software developer by trade, this role has forced me to dive deeper into coding languages like Python. It’s a steep learning curve, but I have learned that there is no limit to learning something new. Balancing this newfound knowledge with my broader responsibilities has its challenges, but that’s part of what keeps the job interesting.

Throughout my day, I’m constantly searching for ways to improve efficiency and develop new solutions to the unique challenges we face operating these machines in the field. Ultimately, my goal is to ensure peak performance for our customers. Whether through software code updates, troubleshooting technical issues, or automating processes, I’m always focused on finding the most efficient way to improve operations and keep things moving.

About Garry

Garry is a DevOps Production Engineer, specializing in automation tools for AI-powered Smart Cultivators. With over 25 years of experience, he has led IT infrastructure projects across multiple industries, including healthcare and AgTech. Previously, he served as Senior Infrastructure Engineer at Montage Health, where he enhanced security and productivity through Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) design. Garry is known for his expertise in network automation, hybrid cloud technologies, and developing cost-saving solutions.

About Stout

The Journey of Innovation in Agriculture: A Story from Austin Larick

by marketing | Aug 21, 2024

When I reflect on my role as the Mechanics Team Lead at Stout, I see a journey deeply rooted in a passion for creating what didn’t exist and pushing the boundaries of agricultural technology. My background in agriculture and AgTech has been instrumental in shaping this path. From my early days, I’ve been driven by a desire to bring new solutions to life, a pursuit that has found a perfect home at Tanimura & Antle and subsequently, Stout.

My journey with Stout began with the commercial development of the PlantTape automated transplanter at Tanimura & Antle. This innovation was the catalyst for the creation of the Tanimura & Antle R&D department. The process of transforming ideas into reality has always been thrilling, and Tanimura & Antle’s extreme motivation to push the industry forward has been a significant driving force behind our successes. Our R&D department, which started as a small team in the bullpen of the hardware shop, has now evolved into the cornerstone of Stout’s innovative spirit.

In my role, I emphasize flexibility and simplicity in our designs. Traditional engineering approaches sometimes lack the fundamentals of moving dirt needed for agricultural innovation. I’ve learned from experience that sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective. For example, we’ve refined our precision implements, like the Smart Cultivator, to allow growers to make adjustments easily and precisely. The user-friendly interface on our Smart Cultivator has significantly improved efficiency and productivity for growers world-wide.

Precision in agricultural machinery is crucial for minimizing waste and maximizing yield. By ensuring that our machines operate with high accuracy, we can help growers reduce wastage and increase the consistency of their produce. The information our machines provide, along with their precise operations, leads to better outcomes in the field, whether it’s in terms of crop yield or operational efficiency.

Our team has developed key innovations in precision implements that benefit growers by making their tasks easier and more efficient. One of the most significant advancements has been the development of a user interface that simplifies adjustments and enhances the precision of operations. This allows growers to be more confident and effective in their fieldwork.

However, developing machinery for diverse agricultural environments comes with its unique challenges. The older generation of farmers being mostly happy with doing what has worked in the past. The increasing openness to technology among younger generations of farmers is encouraging, and it fuels our drive to innovate continuously.

Feedback from growers is invaluable in our design and development process. We prioritize their input to ensure our machinery meets their needs and enhances their productivity. For instance, while working on the Smart Cultivator, we developed an implement to lift drip tape based on requests from specific growing practice, although it required further refinement to suit different regional practices.

At Stout, we strive to make our machinery both user-friendly and technically advanced. Our approach stems from being a farming company first, reaching out to Silicon Valley for technological expertise rather than the other way around. This collaboration ensures that our solutions are practical and beneficial for growers.

The future of agricultural machinery lies within greater efficiency, reduced traffic, and optimal use of growing areas. Stout is positioning itself at the forefront of this movement by creating machines that maximize efficiency with minimal input. Our focus on precision and resource management is key to leading the industry in these future trends.

Looking back, one of the most surprising and rewarding experiences was patenting a simple yet effective landing gear design. It’s moments like these that remind me of the value of intuitive thinking and practical solutions. Every small improvement we’ve made to our machines brings immense satisfaction as we see more growers benefiting from our innovations.

For those entering the AgTech field, especially engineers, my advice is to remain open-minded and adaptable. Agriculture presents unique challenges that require innovative thinking and practical solutions. Understanding that the field environment is unpredictable and uncontrollable is crucial for developing effective technologies.

Every step we’ve taken at Stout to improve our machinery has been a collective achievement. Seeing our innovations make a positive impact on growers’ lives is the most rewarding part of my job. As we continue to push the boundaries of agricultural technology, I am excited about the future and the endless possibilities it holds for Stout and the farming community.

About Austin

Austin Larick, the Mechanics Team Lead at Stout, has a rich background in agriculture and AgTech. Influenced by his grandfathers, both skilled welders, and encouraged by his father’s inventive challenges, Austin developed a passion for problem-solving from a young age. After honing his skills at Wyoming Technical Institute (WyoTech), he started his career at Ramsey Highlander, progressing from welding to electrical work, hydraulics, and machining. He then managed the shop at Green Valley Farm Supply for five years. Austin then spent nine years at Tanimura & Antle (T&A) in research and development, solidifying his reputation as an innovator, where he worked on the PlantTape transplanter. His diverse expertise and leadership have positioned him as a key figure at Stout, dedicated to pushing boundaries in agricultural technology.

About Stout

Release Notes

by marketing | Aug 14, 2024

Smart Cultivator Controller Software Release Notes

5.6.4 – Released Mar 12, 2025

Fixes:

Alarm codes were not being broadcast to Stout Mobile
Some injector nozzle delays were not reset to zero during a factory settings reset

Improvements:

Show all active alarms (not just unacknowledged ones) in the mobile app

5.6.2 – Released Dec 11, 2024

Fixes:

unit conversion for side shift sensor travel
improve entropy when generating session ID
prevent wifi SSID label from being edited

New Features:

GNSS antenna offset setup page

5.5.2 – Released October 30, 2024

Fixes:

Lane ID numbering in alarm messages now matches camera IDs

5.5.1 – Released October 25, 2024

New features:

Optional lockout to prevent starting the machine if a job name has not been entered

5.4.0 – Released October 11, 2024

Improvements:

Camera-related alarms and alarm indicators now match their location on the machine

5.3.0 – Released September 4, 2024

Fixes:

Increased applicator coil minimum detection current to reduce probability of configuration errors

Improvements:

“plant” changed to “center” in distance caption
Improved text alignment in some widgets

New Features:

Added toolbar layout diagram for 3+3+3 module configuration
Added factory reset button on service page
Reset camera to blade distance to default when set to zero

5.2.8 – Released July 12, 2024

Fixes:

Fixed an issue with 3-line backbones having incorrect timing on the center actuator

5.2.7 – Released June 25, 2024

Fixes:

Fixed an issue with update 5.2.6 that prevented some actuators from firing on machines with less than 3 backbones.

5.2.6 – Released June 21, 2024

Fixes:

Fixed an issue with update 5.2.5 that prevented some actuators from firing on machines with 4 or more backbones

5.2.5 – Released June 19, 2024

Fixes:

Fixed an issue where the center actuator would not close in some uncommon machine configurations

5.2.4 – Released June 14, 2024

Improvements:

Flush all applicator nozzles at the same time
Hide the dispense length factor internal setting for VRF

Fixes:

Alignment of dispensed liquid is now correct for 3-line modules
Updated security for factory calibration

5.2.3 – Released May 20, 2024

Improvements:

Better prediction of applicator flow rate
Allow applicator pressure to be set up to 8 bar
Show warning message on applicator page if no valves connected
Limit response times to positive numbers to prevent accidentally making it negative during factory calibration

Fixes:

Applicator flow rate calculation can no longer result in a negative flow rate
Applied rate data per plant is now being broadcast for 100% of plants that were applied to

5.2.2 – Released May 17, 2024

Fixes:

Left bed actuator connection order for SC280

5.2.1 – Released April 30, 2024

Fixes:

Side shift locked message is no longer cut off in Spanish language Improvements:

Improvements:

Better visibility of “side shift locked message”

5.2.0 – Released April 17, 2024

New features:

Spanish language option
Side shift position is locked/held after manual shift, until it is released by pressing the lock/unlock button
SRF UI is enabled if all the manifold sensors are present and valid, even if no solenoids are plugged in
Cellular signal level displayed at top right of navigation bar
Added general diagnostics page
Animated display of module lift over the buttons when they are disabled
Sliding bar to show side shift position

Fixes:

Language selection persists through restarting the machine
Translation applies to the safety disclaimer page
Side shift calibration is reversed for 4-40 chassis left bed
Fixed SRF histogram percentile calculation which was off by 1 bin
Side shift now does not engage until height control is engaged
Plant type selector is now visible on the setup page again

5.1.0 – Released December 12, 2023

Fixes:

Fixed an issue where timeout occurs too early during applicator flow calibration

New features:

Color-coded key for variable rate prescription histogram
Automatically set the pressure setpoint to the current pump pressure when zeroing the flow sensor
Allow pressure setpoint to be entered manually if needed
Allow decimal point in variable rate dose when using metric units
Show the plants counter when variable rate is installed

5.0.3

Fixes:

Show 0 on the applied rate graph above 100-percentile
Fixed visible alignment of prescription graph

5.0.2

Fixes:

Fixed an issue where position the applicator valve opens is not calculated correctly if the previous plant on that line had a different prescription

5.0.1

Re-release of 5.0.0 to fix a deployment issue.

5.0.0

New features:

Added support for variable rate fertilizer add-on
Speed-adaptive actuation offset
Replace commodity readout with machine speed on sidebar
Improved alarm messages to differentiate module lift and height control

Fixes:

Only allow tilt in run mode
Removed commodity selector since commodity detection is automatic

4.10.2

Fixes:

Disabled wheel pressure sensor alarm and functionality
Alignment of background on control page

4.10.1

Fixes:

Features and fixes that were intended for 4.10.0 are in this release.

4.10.0

New features:

Show acres on plants counter

Fixes:

Don’t reset the plants counter on startup

4.9.0

New features:

Manifold Flush functionality added to toolbar service page. This is for use with the low pressure oil filtration pump.

4.8.0

New features:

Speed readout on toolbar service page

Fixes:

Limit blade speed to max of 100%
Set default home positions for outer beds when initializing a new SC440 chassis

4.7.2

Fixes:

Disable side shift control buttons when machine is in stop state
Add a 3 second delay on setting heartbeat alarm on HMI

4.7.1

Fixes:

Don’t allow blade speed to be a negative number

4.7.0

Fixes:

Reset plants counter on startup

4.6.0

New features:

Settable home position for left and right beds

Fixes:

Disable module lift coil outputs for inactive lanes
Use larger integer type for side shift position to prevent overflow on side shifts with more than 6 inches of travel

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