Are you still manually turning your greenhouse lights on and off? Discover how integrated control systems can revolutionize your vertical farming operations. Join me as I sit down with Gretchen Schimelpfenig, a leading expert in the Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) industry. With a background in high-performance buildings and sustainable design, Gretchen has carved out a niche in energy efficiency for greenhouses and indoor farms. Her journey from aspiring sustainable designer to a key player in the CEA industry offers valuable insights into the intersection of energy and agriculture.
In our conversation, we explore the transformative potential of integrated control systems in vertical farming. Gretchen shares her experiences and findings from a California-based study, highlighting the untapped opportunities for energy monitoring and smarter control strategies. We delve into the challenges and innovations within the industry, emphasizing the importance of blending traditional and modern technologies to drive progress.
Beyond the main discussion, we touch on the significance of diversity in the CEA industry, the role of conferences in fostering connections, and the evolving landscape of vertical farming. Gretchen also shares her thoughts on the future of the industry and the trends shaping its growth.
Curious to learn how you can optimize your vertical farming operations and stay ahead in the industry? Click to listen and gain insights from Gretchen's expertise and experiences.
Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag
5:38 Early Career Path
10:01 Role in CEA
20:15 Data Sharing Challenges
26:17 Upcoming Conferences
33:17 CEA Industry Trends
45:20 Nutritional Value in CEA
"I always saw myself as a translator, taking best practices from building design and energy management and applying them to the CEA industry. It's been a pleasure to learn and share knowledge across these fields."
"As a woman in STEM, I've always pushed for more representation. I believe in lifting others up and being a voice that offers a new perspective, especially in an industry that often sees the same types of people on panels."
"The challenge is making the work I do pay for itself, especially when costs are high. I strive to ensure that my contributions, whether through rebates or grants, ultimately make projects more affordable for growers."
Website - https://gretchenschimelpfenig.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gschimelpfenig/
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Mentioned in this episode:
CEA Summit East 2024
2025 US Indoor Farm Report
http://verticalfarmingpodcast.com/report
AgTech Companies
https://agtechcompanies.com