Shawn Conley

Shawn Conley’s journey in agriculture began on a dairy farm in a small town in southern Wisconsin, where he was born and raised. Growing up milking cows and helping with farm chores, Conley developed a deep respect for the land and agriculture. He often jokes that he ended up as a soybean agronomist because he’s never been kicked by a soybean.

Initially, Conley had aspirations of becoming a veterinarian when he started at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Coming from a small rural school, he anticipated that his studies would reflect the rhythm of high school. However, he quickly realized that college was a different challenge. After taking a semester off for a sales internship that didn’t go as planned—an experience that taught him a great deal about the agricultural industry and himself—Conley shifted his focus toward becoming a technical service provider. His path ultimately led him to specialize in soybean research, driven by his love for agriculture and a desire to help farmers through science.

Today, Conley serves as the Extension Soybean and Small Grains Specialist at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, overseeing over 2.2 million acres of soybeans and 1.5 million acres of small grains across Wisconsin, including crops like soft red winter wheat, oats, rye, and barley. Known for his hands-on approach, he balances administrative duties with direct research, making each day dynamic and rewarding. One of his greatest achievements is mentoring the next generation of agronomists. His graduate students are not only central to his research but also represent the future of agriculture—a responsibility he takes seriously.

Conley’s lab team includes research technicians, data analysts, and postdocs, all working collaboratively to secure funding, often through marketing boards, and deliver science-backed insights to Wisconsin’s farmers. A cornerstone of his work is challenging common misconceptions in agriculture—such as the belief that organic foods are inherently healthier or that all farming practices are equally effective in feeding a growing global population. Known as a “myth-buster,” Conley uses his platform to promote evidence-based practices, believing that sound recommendations today can have long-term impacts on sustainable agriculture.

As one of the founding members of the Science for Success program, Conley values the camaraderie and teamwork that has shaped the program’s success. With colleagues like Rachel, who helped formalize S4S, he has watched the program grow from an informal group to a structured initiative that secures significant grant funding and shares research with farmers. Conley finds fulfillment in this collective approach, where innovative ideas and collaboration elevate research and help deliver practical solutions to farmers.

Outside of work, Conley enjoys duck hunting in North Dakota and celebrating Halloween with his family—his favorite holiday. A committed family man, he’s a booster for his daughters’ basketball team and is an active member of his church community. While balancing his responsibilities is challenging, he makes it a priority to stay involved in his daughters’ lives and in community events.

Conley’s dedication to agriculture and education shines through his work, whether he’s engaging farmers at the Corn and Soy Expo or writing children’s books like Cool Bean the Soybean to inspire future generations. Driven by a genuine love for the industry and a desire to leave a lasting impact, Conley continues to advocate for agriculture and the next generation of agricultural scientists, helping to shape a bright future for Wisconsin’s farming community.

Story by Aleigha Kelly and Isabella Dean.