The past, present and future of ag technology

Kristen Sindelar
Jul 17, 2025
Jul 17, 2025

NTTL 1.jpg — Tractors undergo a series of tests at the Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory. Students designed and built a PTO shield for dynamometer testing at the lab.
Submitted photo

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As director of the Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory since 2006, Roger Hoy has been one of the first people to sit in the driver’s seat of many tractors manufactured by major agricultural companies.

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NTTL 2.jpg — A Case IH 470 is being tested on the drawbar track at the Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory.
Submitted photo

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NTTL 3.jpg — Students prepare a new load unit and get ready to install the engine at the Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory.
Submitted photo

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NTTL 4.jpg — A John Deere tractor is set up at the Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory for PTO testing.
Submitted photo

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NTTL 5.jpg — Special testing equipment is used for the three-point lift testing at the Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory.
Submitted photo

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Reporter Kristen Sindelar has loved agriculture her entire life, coming from a diversified farm with three generations working side-by-side in northeastern Nebraska. Reach her at Kristen.Sindelar@midwestmessenger.com.