Every year, the Hill District Grandstand (HDGS) draws the best and brightest in agricultural mechanics from across the state. In 2027, we’re proud to introduce the following judges for the area of Ag Mechanics.

Adren Pilger – 2027 HDGS Ag Mechanics Judge

Adren Pilger

We are thrilled to have Adren Pilger back with us again as one of this year’s Ag Mechanics judges at the 2027 Hill District Grandstand Show. With a BS in Agricultural Education (1983) and an MS in Educational Administration (2004) from Texas A&M University, Adren has built a remarkable career grounded in academia and dedication to the agricultural community.

His extensive judging experience spans local, county, and prestigious events in San Antonio and Houston, including a coveted role judging Champions in Houston in 2024.

Adren’s passion for judging stems from his desire to witness the effort and passion exhibitors invest in their projects, offering valuable feedback for their growth. He encourages exhibitors with Casey Kasem’s words, “Keep your feet on the ground and keep reaching for the stars.”

Outside of the judging arena, Adren enjoys hunting and fishing, sharing these adventures with his wife, Susan, their three children, and seven grandchildren.

Sy Mitchell

Sy Mitchell: 2027 HDGS Ag Mechanic Judge

Sy Mitchell is one of our esteemed HDGS Ag Mechanics judges. With a deep-rooted passion for agriculture and education, Sy brings a wealth of experience and a keen eye for innovation to this highly anticipated event.

Hailing from Caddo, TX, Sy’s background includes a Master’s degree in Education from Tarleton State University and a decade spent inspiring students as an Agriculture Teacher.

His extensive judging experience at various local and state Ag Mechanic shows has given him a unique perspective on the dedication and creativity of young minds. “Judging these shows allows me to see firsthand the ingenuity and dedication that young people put into their work,” Sy says. “It’s incredibly rewarding to witness their growth and development as they tackle complex projects.”

Sy Mitchell embodies the technical knowledge, fairness, and genuine appreciation necessary to evaluate projects at HDGS, making him an invaluable asset to the show.

Marlin Priddy

marlin-priddy-ag-mech-show-judge-2027

We’re excited to welcome Marlin Priddy back as one of our 2027 Hill District Grandstand Ag Mechanics judges!

A graduate of De Leon High School, Marlin earned his Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education from Tarleton State University, followed by a Master of Science in Teaching and a Doctorate of Education with an emphasis in

Agricultural Education.

Marlin’s Ag Mechanics judging experience began at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo around 1999. Since then, he has evaluated projects at numerous county and major shows, including Fort Worth, Heart O’ Texas, and San Antonio. This will be his third year serving on the HDGS Ag Mechanics judging team.

Raised around farming, ranching, and a tree nursery, Marlin developed an early passion for agricultural mechanics. His experience also includes 15 years as a high school agricultural science teacher and teaching at the college and university level.

Marlin believes Ag Mechanics gives young people valuable hands-on, problem-solving, and communication skills they can carry throughout life.

His advice to exhibitors: “Always give it your best, even when nobody is watching. The only way to truly fail is to quit.”

Dustin Gillum

Dustin Gillum: 2027 Hill District Grandstand Ag Mechanic Judge

Hailing from Harper, TX, Dustin brings a wealth of expertise to the table with his associate’s degree in diesel technology and a certificate in off-highway equipment.

With seven years of judging experience at events like Kerrville Ag Mech, Medina County Ag Mech, and San Antonio Ag Mech, he’s well-versed in what it takes to judge top-notch agricultural machinery.

Beyond his professional credentials, Dustin enjoys hunting, traveling, and growing his business. Agricultural enthusiasts and Ag Mechanics alike will appreciate the keen eye and dedication Dustin brings to this year’s show.

The Importance of Ag Mechanics

Ag Mechanics is a crucial discipline within the agricultural community. It encompasses designing, constructing, and maintaining machinery and equipment used in farming and ranching. Competitions like the HDGS Ag Mechanics event showcase the skills and ingenuity of participants, fostering a spirit of innovation and craftsmanship.

Join Us at the 2027 HDGS

We invite all livestock exhibitors, agriculture enthusiasts, and Ag Mechanics fans to join us at the 2027 Hill District Grandstand. With the 2025 lineup of Ag Mechanics judges, we are confident this year’s competition will be more exciting and inspiring than ever. This year’s event takes place on Wednesday, January 20, 2027, at 8:00 a.m. Agricultural Mechanics Show at Hill Country Youth Event Center.

Stay tuned for more updates and get ready to witness the extraordinary talent and dedication that define the Ag Mechanics community.