By Blake Jackson
The Kentucky Farm Bureau (KFB) has named Brandon Gilles of Daviess County as the recipient of its 2025 Young Farmers Excellence in Agriculture Award.
This annual award recognizes individuals or couples under 35 who make significant contributions to agriculture through leadership, advocacy, and community involvement, even if most of their income is earned off the farm.
The award celebrates those who exemplify Kentucky agriculture and Farm Bureau values through both professional and personal efforts.
Gilles, a fifth-generation farmer, serves as Regional Vice President of Crop Insurance for Farm Credit Mid-America while also farming part time on his family’s row crop and cattle operation.
Known for his leadership and dedication, he currently holds positions as First Vice President of the Daviess County Farm Bureau Board of Directors and County Young Farmer Chair and is a recent graduate of the KFB LEAD program.
Committed to agricultural education and community engagement, Gilles has hosted numerous farm tours, welcoming students, community members, and national leaders to his family farm.
Gilles has also played a central role in local farm-to-table initiatives, helping connect producers with consumers to promote understanding and appreciation of Kentucky agriculture.
Beyond his involvement with KFB, Gilles serves on several boards, including the Owensboro Community and Technical College Foundation, the Owensboro Chamber of Commerce Ag Committee, and the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture Alumni Board, reflecting his dedication to education, mentorship, and advancing the agricultural industry.
“Agriculture is more than a profession - it’s a legacy and a way of life that has shaped my values and work ethic,” Gilles said.
As the 2025 winner, Gilles will receive a John Deere side-by-side from Farm Credit Mid-America and will represent Kentucky in the national competition at the American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in January 2026.
Second place went to Keeley Cooper of Madison County, who received $400, while third place was awarded to Kendall Bowman of Owen County, receiving $300.
Photo Credit: kentucky-farm-bureau
Categories: Kentucky, Business, Government & Policy