Stockade caught up with Matt Schaefer, General Manager, Grassland Solutions, Minnesota, to reflect on the success of the 2022 Fall Fence Forum. Here’s how it went:
How did you come to know about the Fall Fence Forum?
I did not attend the first year and realized through social media that I missed out on something that seemed valuable to my business.
How many times have you attended?
Since then, I have attended for the last three years.
What keeps you coming back?
The people that show up to the event are leaders in the industry, plus the forum is a place to share Ideas with other fence professionals, which are both on installation side and sales side. It’s also a showcase of talents and ideas that you can build together collectively, an experience that you can duplicate at a trade show or typical field day.
What did you enjoy the most?
The people and the event in general.
We then were able to catch some words from Ryan Gray from Cowboy Construction, Washington.
What three words would you say best describes your experience at the forum?
- Educational
- Empowering
- Fun
Your favourite part of the Fall Fence Forum?
I enjoyed good conversation with like-minded people who want to improve their business.
The one thing you learned the most.
I learned how to run a p240 on a Rayco, not as good as Stewart but still fun to run. I also learned that I need to buy one!
Now, here are some words from Kyle Stender, a fencing contractor and owner of J&K Agriculture Inc, Western New York.
What three words would you say best describes your experience at the forum?
- Engaging
- Educational
- Entertaining
Your favourite part of the Fall Fence Forum
That this event brings together contractors and vendors to connect and collaborate on ways to improve the Agricultural Fencing industry and to continue to work on best practices.
A new person you met
Connor Voulo, in person, who was the new recruit that Stockade sponsored to attend the Fall Fence Forum. Although I was a part of seeing the essays submitted for this opportunity, it was great to actually speak with him, work with him, and get to know him and his Dad better.
One thing you learnt
I continuously learn that people in the fencing industry are generous and willing to share their knowledge with fellow contractors. It was truly an event where encouragement, hands on practice and lengthy discussions were had. From how to build a fence to best practices, while also keeping your business successful. So many folks from all over, including people from the UK, Mexico and Northern and Southern United States, were willing to share their knowledge of how to build a better fence, what tools and techniques they use and reasons behind certain practices.
Last but not least, our Product Manager for Stockade Andy Schoenherr shares a few final thoughts with us.
What three words would you say best describes your experience at the forum?
- Collaborative
- Supportive
- Exciting
Your favourite part of the Fall Fence Forum.
The Food! Leslie and her team make the breakfasts and lunches from scratch. The dinners were instead catered by a local company. No one leaves the Forum hungry! Friday night everyone sits around the campfire and shares their favorite tool tips and more, but more importantly, talks about the fencing industry and how the other contractors have supported them in their business and career.