“Chad Colby has his fingers on the pulse of the newest and best of agricultural technology, and he is generous in sharing that information with farmers and growers, agri-businesses and organizations, here in the U.S. and around the world. His popular technology updates and field reports for This Week in Agribusiness bring our viewers a unique perspective on production agriculture from across the country.”
“From his origin as an Illinois farm kid to a self-professed technology nerd, Chad Colby has emerged as one of the most sought-after agricultural technology experts in this country, and, now, around the globe. Chad has the remarkable ability to connect with a wide range of audiences. Whether it is a table of 10 growers or a room of 300 agribusiness leaders, Chad weaves his own experiences into explanations of current and emerging technologies in a manner that leaves them embracing concepts and ready to adopt cutting-edge production practices.”
When agriculture, construction, and equipment manufacturers want a real-world perspective on emerging technology, they turn to Chad Colby.
Chad is the founder of Colby AgTech, where he focuses on the practical application of artificial intelligence, automation, autonomy, advanced imaging, and connected systems across agriculture, heavy equipment, and industrial operations. His work bridges the gap between innovation and implementation—helping organizations understand not just what’s new, but what actually works.
Grounded in the Cab, Focused on the Future
Chad’s credibility is rooted in experience. Raised on a family farm in Central Illinois, he continues to spend time every year in the cab of tractors and combines, working alongside farmers during planting and harvest. That hands-on connection ensures his insights are grounded in reality—not theory.
From those roots, Chad has built a career evaluating and communicating how technology reshapes work in the field. His focus has evolved from early adoption of UAVs to a broader lens that now includes AI-driven decision systems, autonomous equipment, electrification, robotics, advanced sensing, and real-time data platforms.
From Aviation to Automation
Chad’s path also includes time in aviation construction, working on airport hangar projects across the U.S., where he earned his pilot’s license and developed a deep appreciation for systems, safety, and automation. That background continues to influence how he evaluates emerging technologies—especially those crossing over from aerospace and automotive into agriculture and industry.
Media, Education, and Influence
Since 2018, Chad has hosted the “Colby AgTech” technology segment on This Week in Agribusiness, delivering weekly reports on innovation—from autonomous equipment and AI software to EV platforms, drones, and advanced machinery. His media work keeps him continuously testing, questioning, and validating new technologies in real environments.
Chad has appeared on national media outlets including CNBC, RFD-TV, WGN Radio, XM Satellite Radio, Iowa Public Radio, and Market to Market. His work is trusted because it is informed by experience, not hype.
A Global Speaker with a Practical Message
A sought-after speaker, Chad has presented across the U.S. and internationally, including appearances at Commodity Classic, InfoAg, Commercial UAV Expo, Farm Progress Shows, the Australian Summer Grains Conference, and on Capitol Hill. His presentations focus on how AI, automation, autonomy, and connected systems are reshaping agriculture and equipment industries today—and what leaders should be doing next.
Current Role
Chad currently serves as Marketing Director at TCI Manufacturing in Walnut, Illinois, where he works closely with engineering, sales, and customers to integrate advanced technology, digital tools, and automation into large-scale equipment solutions.
Chad resides in Deer Creek, Illinois, with his wife Jacqueline and their family.
Connect with Chad on Twitter: @TheChadColby, by emailing him at colbyuas@ gmail.com
2018-2020 Board Member of National Association of Farm Broadcasting
2015 Commercial UAV Expo Advisory Board
Life Member of National Corn Growers
Life Member of Experimental Aircraft Association - EAA
Member of American Soybean Association
Life Member of FFA Alumni
