On his family’s dairy farm in Peotone, Dakota Cowger wakes up early each morning to feed his cattle. After finishing his morning chores, he heads to Peotone High School, where he serves as an Ag Teacher and FFA Advisor, shaping the next generation of agricultural leaders. His dedication to education extends beyond the walls of his classroom as he fosters a passion for agriculture in students. Later that evening, he’ll respond to emails from members of the Will County Ag Literacy Committee, a group he’s proudly chaired for five years that promotes agriculture and connects farmers with their local community.

A little over three hours to the south, Jonathan Griffel is getting his equipment ready to plant soybeans on his farm in Gillespie. While he’s in the field, Jonathan also captures content for his role as an Illinois Farm Families Farmer Ambassador, sharing the story of agriculture with consumers to help connect them with the farmers who grow their food. Tonight, he’ll head to the Macoupin County Farm Bureau office to lead the Young Leader Committee meeting as its President.

What do Dakota and Jonathan have in common? These two farmers exemplify the qualities that define Illinois’ most outstanding young agricultural leaders: an unyielding work ethic, a passion for progress and a deep commitment to their communities. Dakota and Jonathan are among the individuals who have earned recognition as part of the Illinois Soybean Association’s (ISA) 20 Under 40—a prestigious list celebrating the next generation of agricultural innovators and changemakers.

Now entering its fourth year, the 20 Under 40 program, proudly sponsored by John Deere, continues to spotlight the next generation of leaders in Illinois agriculture. We’re calling on you to help us discover these rising stars. If you know a farmer under the age of 40 in Illinois who goes above and beyond in both their farming practices and community involvement, we encourage you to nominate them for this year’s class.

Through our collaboration with partners at Illinois Corn, Midwest Dairy, the Illinois Pork Producers Association, the Grain and Feed Association of Illinois, and the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association, ISA continues to champion the diverse and dynamic individuals who are driving agriculture forward in Illinois.

Illinois is home to some of the nation’s most talented and dedicated farmers raising soybeans, cattle, pumpkins and more. These men and women are not just cultivating the land—they are cultivating the future of our state’s agriculture industry. And they’re just getting started.

To nominate yourself or a deserving young farmer for this year’s class of 20 Under 40 farmers, or to learn more, visit ilsoy.org/20-under-40/ today.