Developing Leaders In Iowa Through Women In Agriculture Conferences

From ag lending to livestock production to seed sales, women have vital roles in Iowa’s agricultural economy. They are taking on leadership roles and contributing to family farm and agribusiness decisions that can keep Iowa agriculture vibrant and resilient. The purpose of the annual Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Women in Ag Leadership Conference is to support women with research-based information and women-centered educational programs. The overarching objectives for the conference are to connect women with other women who inspire their leadership journey, increase their belief in themselves and the power of life-long learning, give them practical leadership skills they can use, and expand their overall level of leadership capacity. The results of five years of conference surveys indicate the conferences were effective in strengthening women’s leadership capacity. When Iowa State Univeristy Extension and Outreach extends knowledge and empowers women in agriculture, they can become leaders in creating a more sustainable Iowa by expanding businesses, conserving natural resources, and supporting each other as a community of women in agriculture. Women leaders in the agricultural industry are key stakeholders in the production of safe food and agricultural sustainability.