FCS Financial is proud to support the next generation of Missouri’s agricultural leaders through the Agricultural Leadership of Tomorrow (ALOT) program. With applications now open for Class XXI, this is the perfect opportunity for ag professionals across the state to invest in their leadership journey and deepen their impact in rural communities.
ALOT is a two-year leadership development experience designed for farmers, agribusiness professionals, rural advocates, and emerging voices in Missouri agriculture. Participants engage in a series of seminars focused on communication, policy, economics, and leadership, with sessions held across the state and abroad. From hands-on workshops to in-depth discussions on issues facing Missouri agriculture, the program challenges individuals to grow both personally and professionally.
For years, FCS Financial has encouraged young professionals to participate in ALOT as part of their commitment to building strong rural communities. Many of their member-owners and staff have taken part in the program—and graduated with valuable skills, fresh ideas, and statewide connections. ALOT alumni within the FCS Financial organization often cite it as a pivotal experience in their leadership development and community involvement.
My involvement in the ALOT program provided an immeasurable amount of personal opportunities, from the classmates I participated with in discussions to the people we met at each of the meetings across the state. The experiences our class received due to the commitment of ALOT Alumni with connections in Missouri, Washington, DC & international travel is unmatched. The opportunity to see firsthand the vast differences of agriculture across the State of Missouri and take an international trip was largely impactful.
My participation in ALOT showed me how to listen to understand versus listen to respond and be open to various thoughts in high-emotion discussions. The roundtables made me better at discussing sensitive subjects and I learned different perspectives.
This involvement introduced me to some of my closest friends and relationships that have been extremely impactful to my family. You definitely get out what you put into the experience.
- Chad A. McCollough
Vice President | FCS Financial
ALOT Class XVI
One of the hallmarks of ALOT is its emphasis on real-world leadership. Participants don’t just study theory—they meet with policymakers, explore international agriculture firsthand, and tackle the challenges facing their communities. The program includes a visit to our nation’s capital, where class members engage directly with leaders in Washington, D.C., gaining a deeper understanding of federal policy and its impact on Missouri agriculture. For many, the relationships formed during the program become lifelong connections with fellow ag professionals, mentors, and advocates across the state and beyond.
“ALOT is educational, provides networking opportunities, sharpens leadership skills, and it pushes you outside your comfort levels. This may look different for each individual, but you will truly find perspective and what you are capable of through the ALOT program.”
- Megan Heman
Customer Service Team Leader, Ag & Rural Lending | FCS Financial
ALOT Class XX
The program’s impact doesn’t stop at graduation. ALOT alumni have gone on to serve in leadership roles in agribusiness, policy, education, and community development. Their ongoing contributions reflect the program’s mission: to cultivate leaders who understand Missouri agriculture—and are ready to shape its future.
If you—or someone you know—are passionate about agriculture, curious about policy, and committed to making a difference in your community, ALOT is worth exploring. Class XXI will begin January 2026, and applications are open now through September 30, 2025.
Learn more or apply today at: https://missourialot.org/candidates/apply
Thank you to FCS Financial and the many agricultural organizations and industry partners who make the ALOT program possible. Your investment in leadership development is shaping the future of Missouri agriculture.
