DEFOREST, Wis. — Wisconsin Custom Operators, Inc. (WCO) recently awarded three scholarships to students pursuing further education. These students were selected based on leadership, civic engagement, academics, and volunteer activities related to agriculture. Students also submitted essays detailing their educational and vocational plans. Scholarship winners are required to have ties to WCO – either as a member, relative or employee of a member, or as a relative of a member-client. Students received a $1,000 or $1,500 scholarship.
“WCO understands that continued success of Wisconsin’s agricultural economy depends on a well-trained workforce,” said Joseph Sanford, chairman of the WCO Scholarship and Awards Committee and an assistant professor in the School of Agriculture at the University of Wisconsin–Platteville. “We also recognize that there are a growing number of training opportunities to fulfill this need, ranging from traditional college experiences to trade and apprenticeship programs.”
Mason Heise of Marathon, Wis. was chosen to receive the $1,500 Robert Hoerth Memorial Scholarship, which honors the late WCO Past President Robert Hoerth, who tragically passed away in early 2020. The scholarship is awarded to the most deserving applicant based on their alignment with the established criteria. Mason is studying precision agriculture at Fox Valley Technical College. Through his program, he is gaining hands-on knowledge in installing, repairing, and operating precision technology used in modern agricultural equipment. After completing his studies, Mason hopes to join a custom harvest crew working throughout the Midwest to gain additional experience with large-scale operations and advanced technology. Ultimately, he plans to return to central Wisconsin to pursue a career as a precision agriculture technician, helping farmers optimize their equipment and achieve the best possible crop outcomes.
Hailey Zernicke of Cecil, Wis. received a $1,000 scholarship. She is studying animal science at the University of Minnesota with strong ties to agriculture. Hailey hopes to build a career in the agricultural industry doing work that benefits farmers and rural communities. In the future, she envisions a role in her family’s dairy farm or in a role helping farmers with financial management and decision-making. Zernicke has ties to WCO through Milk-n-More Harvesting LLC, who provides custom farming services to her family farm. She says the scholarship will help her continue her education while gaining experiences that support both her personal and professional growth.
Izzy Dannenberg of Mineral Point, Wis. received a $1,000 scholarship. She currently attends Loras College studying creative media with plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications. Dannenberg hopes to focus her future career on digital communications and digital marketing within the agricultural industry. She is gaining experience through internships and industry opportunities while using social media and other digital platforms to communicate agricultural stories and information to a wider audience. Izzy is the daughter of the owners of Triple D Farms.
Applications for the 2026 WCO scholarship are being accepted through May 1. Interested students should visit https://wiscustomoperators.
In 2026, three (3) awards will be given: Two (2) $1,000 scholarships and the $1,500 Robert Hoerth Memorial Scholarship.
To be eligible, applicants may have direct family ties to a current WCO member or to an employee of a WCO member. Applicants may also be a member themselves. In addition, a WCO member may nominate a scholarship applicant who does not meet the above criteria. For example, if a WCO member has a customer who has an exemplary son, daughter, or employee, they are eligible to apply.
The program is open to any post-secondary training, including traditional college experiences and career-focused programs such as CDL truck driver training courses, pesticide applicator training programs/exams, or other industry-relevant certifications. Individuals pursuing non-academic post-secondary education who are seeking career opportunities in the industry, such as joining a harvest crew or participating in an apprenticeship program, are also encouraged to apply.
About Wisconsin Custom Operators, Inc.: WCO is an organization comprised of individuals throughout the state who derive their income in whole or part from providing custom farming services. To learn more about Wisconsin Custom Operators, Inc., including membership and events, go to wiscustomoperators.org or email info@wiscustomoperators.org.
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