A new generation of women is helping shape today’s agriculture industry. This generation brings its own perspectives, innovative ideas, and new leadership styles to the industry.
Yet they didn’t get here on their own. Today’s emerging leaders are building on the foundation laid by those who came before – a generation of experienced producers and professionals that is creating space for the next generation to thrive.
For Josie Van Lent, an experienced producer, ag professional and educator, it has been a privilege to mentor women and men throughout her career.
“This has happened many times during my career,” explained Van Lent, who was named AFSC’s Women in Ag Professional award winner in 2024. “(It) has been a natural result of some of my roles, such as my leadership roles at Lakeland College, where I was able to see talent – and again, both male and female talent – and elevate that talent.”
The power of mentorship
Support and mentorship can come from a variety of places including family, groups like 4-H and other community and industry members, said Jordyn Prior, who was named as AFSC’s 2026 Women in Ag Emergent (rising star) award winner in March.
For Prior, family played a foundational role in her journey.
“My family has been a strong foundation in my journey, especially having grown up on a multi-generational operation – my grandmas were movers and shakers and so they always come to top of mind,” explained Prior, who owns and manages a cow herd and works in agriculture marketing and community engagement.
“I’ve also been fortunate to grow up in a family with two brothers and a group of cousins who always treated me as an equal. They encouraged me to take on any task, reinforcing the belief that women are just as capable of doing hands-on, traditionally ‘blue-collar’ work. That mindset has stayed with me: if you’re willing to put in the effort, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.”
It’s important to have people in your life – whether at work, through coaching or within the industry – who are functioning at a level you aspire to reach, said Prior. These are the individuals you can turn to for advice, perspective, and motivation as you continue to grow.
“Effective mentorship is a partnership,” said Van Lent. “I get as much out of the mentorship as the mentee does.
“And sometimes it is about being brutally honest! Some of my best mentors were individuals who told me things I didn’t want to hear but needed to hear to progress and to become a better person!”
Breaking down barriers
The agriculture industry still faces barriers to entry and visibility for both men and women. Prior pointed to factors such as high start-up costs, smaller herd sizes, and environmental challenges like drought that can make it difficult for young producers to get established.
Additionally, women in agriculture often balance multiple roles while working in an industry that doesn’t always fully recognize their contributions.
“There can be ongoing internal pressure to manage everything – household responsibilities, careers, farming operations, and family—while also wanting to show up fully in each area,” said Prior. “There can also be challenges in finding your place and ensuring your voice is heard.
“At times, I’ve felt the need to prove myself in what has traditionally been a male-dominated industry – but that’s steadily changing. It’s incredibly encouraging to see more and more women stepping into farming and leadership roles, and that progress is something I’m proud to witness.”
Van Lent said her journey in agriculture has involved few challenges and none that differed from those faced by her male colleagues. She said she believes women today have more opportunities to advance in their careers and that women who farm or who are partners in farms have a stronger voice than in the past. However, she feels women could be better represented at the board level.
“I think choices around family and other commitments are still making participating at the board table and in management positions – at some levels – challenging for women,” said Van Lent.
Despite these challenges, both women see positive change taking place across the industry, with more women stepping into leadership roles and helping shape agriculture’s future.
A strong future ahead
While challenges related to visibility, representation, and access to opportunities remain, their momentum continues to build across the industry. Prior pointed to more women stepping into roles in their careers and at home, shaping the future of agriculture in powerful and meaningful ways.
“Agriculture is deeply rooted in relationships, and trust is a key part of that foundation,” explained Prior. “While there is always more progress to be made, I’m encouraged by the direction the industry is heading and the continued commitment to growth, inclusion, and support.”
Looking ahead, Prior hopes to inspire the next generation of women exploring careers in agriculture.
“Agriculture needs a wide range of perspectives, and there is no single path to success. Seek out mentors, build strong relationships, and stay true to your values, while remaining open to growth and new opportunities.
“There is a strong future in agriculture – and there is absolutely a place in it for you.”
