Decoder with Nilay Patel John Deere CTO Jahmy Hindman on farming, data, and fixing the tractors of the future
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Jun 15, 2021 Jahmy Hindman, Chief Technology Officer at John Deere, leads discussions on the intersection of technology and agriculture. He shares insights on how precision farming is reshaping equipment through advanced computing, highlighting the challenges of connectivity and climate change. Hindman explores the significance of the 'Right to Repair' movement, addressing farmers' struggles with software restrictions. Additionally, he delves into the ongoing semiconductor chip shortage and the push towards electric machinery, envisioning a tech-driven future for farming.
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Tractors as Computers
- Modern tractors are essentially mobile sensor suites with onboard and offboard computational capabilities.
- They continuously stream data to the cloud for processing and insights delivery to farmers.
Software Focus
- John Deere employs more software engineers than mechanical engineers, highlighting the shift towards software solutions.
- They utilize third-party applications through APIs for data analysis and customer benefit.
Data's Role in Farming
- Data collection in farming starts at the previous season's harvest with yield mapping.
- This data informs decisions on seeding, nutrients, and crop management for the next season.