At just 8 years old, Hans Fenner from a farm in Michigan, USA, sees driving a tractor as much more than just a spectator activity. He confidently and skillfully operates tractors, golf carts, and Bobcat farm vehicles on his family’s farm, spanning 1,900 acres.
Hans, the youngest of three siblings in the Fenner family, developed a strong interest in tractors from a young age while watching his grandfather, Bryan Fenner, and father, Jonathan Fenner, work on the farm. His mother, Devon Fenner, shared that since he could stand at the window and observe them, he was hooked on tractors.
Now at the age of 8, his fascination with these four-wheeled farm vehicles remains undiminished. According to Devon, Hans wakes up at 6 am and urges adults to take him out to drive the tractor and work in the fields.
One day, while the children were playing outside, Devon was amazed to see 2-year-old Hans climbing onto the family’s golf cart by himself and “perfectly” driving it. She knew then that he would take over the farm and operate farm equipment at a young age.
During the summer, Hans surprised his parents again by independently driving an old Ford tractor to rake hay in the field, displaying a sense of pride and accomplishment.
At around 5 years old, Hans began driving the tractor on his own. He has been sitting in the tractor’s passenger seat since birth, with his parents taking adequate precautions to ensure his safety and provide proper care.
Now, Hans can easily handle heavy Bobcat equipment and larger planting machines, in addition to using a small tractor to feed the cows on the farm.
When asked about his experience driving a tractor, Hans simply replied, “It’s cool.”
While Devon and her husband encourage Hans, along with his 12-year-old sister Evelyn and 10-year-old brother Hudson, to help on the farm, they are mindful of protecting their children from danger when operating farm machinery and ensuring they have adequate supervised practice time.
Furthermore, Hans and his father maintain wireless communication for constant contact while Hans is driving the tractor, with Jonathan always keeping a close eye on him.
Throughout the year, Hans assists his parents with various farm chores. During calving season, he tags cows for identification; in spring, he tills the land with machinery; throughout summer, he focuses on hay, wheat, and rye management; and in colder months, he helps load corn onto the tractor.
“At the age of 8, Hans has displayed a work ethic not commonly seen in many adults,” proudly stated his mother.
The Fenners never force their children to work but always allow them to choose between playing or working on the farm. Jonathan warmly welcomes their presence on the farm and assigns tasks within their capabilities if they are willing.
The couple often encourages their children to engage in outdoor activities and avoid using phones to shield them from negative influences.
Their parenting philosophy is rooted in faith. “We pray for our children every morning, seeking God’s blessings on our farm and guidance for our family,” said Devon. “We are raising them to be diligent individuals, teaching them to fear God, respect the country, and honor their parents from a young age.”
This mother of three children shares her family life on Instagram, where she has accumulated nearly 400,000 followers.
Hans is described as “capable and ambitious,” displaying a drive that fears no challenge or hard work, determined to follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather to become a true farmer one day.
“I’m going to take over the Fenner farm,” he declared.
(Devon Fenner @fennerfarms provided)