Women-Changing the Face of Agriculture

       “Opportunity is often missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.” This quote by Thomas Edison shapes the world of agriculture that we live in today. When most people stop and think about agriculture the common idea is generations of hard working men who are passionate about providing for their families and communities. People often miss the importance of women in the agricultural industry. Women have played a vital role in agriculture in many ways such as stepping out into the business world, studying new plant and technology traits, and even owning their own farms.

Helping out with FFA judging at
Pork Congress.

         Women have always had to face a certain adversity in agriculture. I believe that the hardest part about being a woman working in the agricultural industry is that you are always having to prove yourself twice as hard as you would if you were a male in the agricultural industry. Sometimes women in agriculture aren’t always credited to the same knowledge and performance abilities that males are in the industry. For women looking to pursue careers in agriculture stereotypes such as these make them work harder at their jobs and to work harder at showing the consumers that they are devoted, and knowledgeable about the agricultural industry and want to help them thrive in the industry.

Teaching other ISU students how to show hogs at Block &Bridle's
Little North American Showmanship contest. 

         Today in the agricultural industry there are more opportunities then ever before, and this is especially true for women who want to pursue careers in agriculture. There will always be a need for people who are passionate and willing to step out of the norm and take the opportunities that agriculture has to offer.

           

        Now more than ever before, I am excited to be pursuing a career in agriculture! I know that there may be challenges that come with pursuing a career that is male dominated, but I am excited to pursue a career in the agricultural field that I grew up loving!

 Remember that I have commanded you to be strong and brave. Don’t be afraid, because the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

                                                        --Joshua 1:9--