For Brian Wilson, there’s a simple standard behind every application: do it right the first time.

 

Brian has been crowned the 2026 Illinois Custom Applicator of the Year, he is with BCS, LLC in Arrowsmith, Illinois. With six years of spraying experience, Brian covers an average of 33,000 acres annually, primarily operating his favorite machine, a John Deere R4045.

 

Brian’s motivation comes from knowing growers are depending on him to protect both their crops and their investment. “Input costs are high, leaving no room for error,” Brian said. “Every acre needs to be applied accurately and precisely.” That responsibility shapes how Brian approaches every day during the busy season. His mornings typically begin before sunrise with a look at the weather forecast. Once at work, he reviews the day’s field list for crop and chemistry changes and carefully checks his machine before heading to the field.

 

From there, Brian focuses on one field, one border and one obstacle at a time. If he is unfamiliar with a field, he takes the time to thoroughly study the maps before beginning. Throughout the day, he continually monitors his applications for accuracy and stays in communication with the office as weather conditions and priorities change.

When the last acre is finished, Brian’s work still isn’t done. He cleans his application equipment, refills fluids, greases the machine as needed and checks for anything that needs attention so he is ready to go again the next morning.

 

Brian takes particular pride in the quality of his work and the reputation he has built with customers. He understands that every application reflects not only on him, but also on his company. “I strive for compliments, not complaints,” Brian said.

 

His first application machine was a Hagie STS16, while today his favorite seat is behind the wheel of the John Deere R4045.

 

When Brian isn’t covering acres, he enjoys camping with his family. With his wife also working in the agriculture industry, finding time to get away can sometimes be a challenge—but they make it work whenever they can.

 

Whether he’s preparing his machine before sunrise, navigating a challenging field or checking that final application of the day, Brian keeps his focus where it matters most: accuracy, dependability and doing every acre right the first time.