A John Deere Publication

Green John Deere tractor on a grassy field at sunset with two people standing beside it.

Dillon Branderhorst and his wife Neila at sunset in Oskaloosa, Iowa. For more information on Work Planner, see your local John Deere dealer.

Agriculture, Ag Tech December 01, 2025

Tech@Work

Saving time when it matters most.

Just south of Oskaloosa, Iowa, a multi-generational farm thrives—rooted in tradition yet driven by innovation. For one family, saving time isn't just about convenience: it's about making every moment count, especially during the busiest seasons.

After college and a stint at a production facility, Dillon Branderhorst returned home to farm alongside his dad, grandpa, and brother. Together, they manage row crops, hogs, and run a custom manure hauling business. Grandpa, now in his 80s, still runs the combine every fall—a testament to the family's deep-rooted dedication.

What's changed the most? Technology. With tools like Work Planner within John Deere Operations Center™, they now map out every field operation in winter. Instead of scrambling in the spring, they arrive at each field with a plan—seed varieties, guidance lines, and prescriptions already loaded. "I unfold and go," he says. "It's that simple. Things can get hectic in the fall and anyone that helps us needs to be able to jump in and do any job." Even their hired hand, new to precision tech, can operate equipment with ease.

Accurate documentation has transformed their approach. Years of data are instantly accessible, helping them make smarter decisions and boost yields. "Every operation we do, I push through Work Planner. It helps us stay organized. I can place seed exactly where it needs to go," Dillon explains. The benefits go beyond the field. Fewer phone calls, less fatigue, and more time for what matters: fishing, bonfires with friends, church softball, and quiet evenings watching sunsets with his wife and dogs.

Though farming is demanding, this family proves that with the right tools and mindset, you can save time when it matters most. ‡