Women in Ag Are Rising to the Challenge

According to the 2012 USDA Census of Agriculture, women made up about 31 percent of U.S. farmers, but that figure by itself doesn’t tell the whole story. While women are already making major contributions to the industry, an even greater role awaits them in the future. The infographic to the right cites specific figures. And below, three female ag leaders share their insights on how increasing opportunities are impacting their lives as well as those of other women across the industry.

• “I’m proud to help Syngenta shape the future of agriculture. It’s something that we all have a stake in, and women are taking on more of a leadership role in developing the plans for success. Women leaders at Syngenta recognize that it’s important to share their perspective to aid decision making, challenge status quo and develop talent.”
  
  —Teresa McNeal, head of soybean product marketing at Syngenta


• “The opportunities for women in agriculture are increasing significantly every day. As women, we are discovering our niches in the industry and realizing that we are capable of making a difference. It’s extremely humbling to be able to give back to an industry that has shaped you into the person you are today.”
  
  —Kelsey Vance, retail sales representative at Syngenta


• “Agriculture is an industry that thrives, in part, because of the community of women who are committed to creating more opportunities for female students and other young leaders.”
  
  —Krista Lottinville, 2015 Drive to Thriv winner