Becker awarded Driving Agriculture Forward Scholarship

Seven individuals are receiving financial support to enroll in truck driver training classes thanks to the Driving Agriculture Forward Scholarship program, funded by Illinois Farm Bureau and administered by the IAA Foundation.

The charitable arm of the Illinois Farm Bureau, the IAA Foundation, awards $20,000 in scholarships annually to offset the cost of commercial truck driver training and ensure more well-trained, safer drivers are available.

The first round of recipients for 2025 were just announced and include Grant Becker of Bartelso.

“Investing in individuals who keep agriculture products moving is a pleasure, they represent the strength and diversity of our industry,” said Jennifer Smith, Development Manager, IAA Foundation.

Scholarship applications are available year-round with consideration deadlines occurring quarterly. The next application deadline is June 30, which correlates to drivers who intend to enroll in a commercial driver training program at an Illinois community college between July 1 and September 30, 2025.

All applicants must be Illinois residents and provide proof of enrollment during their corresponding award cycle. An endorsement from a farmer, County Farm Bureau leader, agribusiness, or food processing business is required.

Eligibility guidelines and applications are available through the IAA Foundation website at www.iaafoundation.org.

For more information, contact your county Farm Bureau, the IAA Foundation at 309-557-2232, or email Jennifer Smith at [email protected]  

The mission of the IAA Foundation is to fund education, research, and charitable activities that benefit Illinois farm families and agriculture.