Ben Jarboe was hired by Mid-West Farm Report as a farm broadcaster on July 15.

Jarboe grew up on a row crop farm in central Illinois, where his family raised corn and soybeans. He knew from a young age that he wanted to stay in agriculture when he grew up.

“I remember riding along with my grandpa or uncle on the tractor, and that was all I wanted to do,” Jarboe said.

He attended Illinois College to get his bachelor’s degree in agricultural business and graduated in May 2024.

Jarboe’s new position allows him to interview producers and other agricultural professionals for stories.

“I like getting information out to people to help them do their jobs as farmers and ranchers,” Jarboe said. “I also upload newsletters for Mid-West Farm Report, and I’m starting to learn the morning show.”

His favorite part of the job is learning about his new home state.

“I grew up in row crop agriculture, so I didn’t know anything about dairy production when I moved here,” Jarboe said. “I am excited to meet more people and learn about Wisconsin agriculture and what this state offers.”