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TED is a nonprofit organization devoted
to Ideas Worth Spreading. Two annual
TED conferences invite the world’s
leading thinkers and doers to speak for 18
minutes on a diverse mix of topics. Many
of these talks are made available for free
at
TED.com.Launched in 2009, TEDx is a
program of locally organized events that
bring the community together to share a
TED-like experience.
Technology’s Important Role
Thomason became interested in speaking
at a TEDx event after presenting at a
recent national conference. He discov-
ered that one would be held in Topeka,
applied, and was chosen as one of eight
speakers.
Through his talk, Thomason wanted
listeners to consider the impact that tech-
nology plays in agriculture. “Technology
and broadband aren’t just for entertain-
ment anymore,” says Thomason, “but a
real tool for productivity in agriculture—
as with soil mapping, irrigation monitor-
ing, and more.” In his talk, Thomason
pointed out how the technology is
constantly evolving and becoming more
complex. He also noted how technology
companies and agriculture experts need
to start the discussion and collaboration
of helping increase production of food for
our growing world.
Emily Ford, Blue Valley Network of
Companies Video Production Technician,
notes, “Audience members in the agricul-
ture field were excited to have someone
bring the topic up to the general public.
They feel that technology and broadband
issues affect them every day, but that not
many people realize the importance and
impact.”
Thomason hopes that, as a result of his
speech, partnerships and alliances will
be formed to help deploy broadband in
underserved areas.
Keeping the Message Alive
Thomason’s speech was very well
received. It was thought-provoking and
challenged audience members to think
about where their food comes from and
how it gets to them. Ford says, “We’re
very excited for the video to be uploaded
to YouTube, so that it can reach a wider
audience. There’s a big movement
right now regarding our food, how it’s
produced, and how it gets to us. We think
this presentation will help educate those
looking for information on the subject.”
Following the speech, Thomason hopes
to continue spreading the word. He says,
“I’m passionate about this subject, and
would love to meet with other compa-
nies interested in learning more about
the connection between broadband and
agriculture.” He is also willing to present
this topic again, or lead discussions for
other groups.
TEDxTopeka took place on Tuesday, December 8, 2015, at the Topeka Civic Theatre and
Academy. The event featured local voices including a talk by the Blue Valley Network of
Companies CEO Brian Thomason.
Brian
Thomason’s
TEDxTopeka
Talk
Our CEO shares his passion
about technology in agriculture