The leader of an Iowa-based ag organization says women have an essential role in preserving the future of the ag industry.
Julie Kenney, CEO of the Agribusiness Association of Iowa, says women bring a unique perspective to the challenges that agriculture is facing.
“Do not be afraid of putting yourself out there,” she said. “You don’t have to know everything about everything to take a step forward toward whatever that thing is.”
Kenney and her family own and operate a corn and soybean farm in Story County, and she’s a past Deputy Ag Secretary for the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. Kenney also has nearly two decades of experience working for private industry and ag associations, and state checkoff programs.
She tells Brownfield that she urges farming women to find a solid network of supporters.
“Find your crew that can support you through some of those challenging times, and find the crew that has maybe been through some of those things before,” Kenney said. “It’s easier to learn from other people’s successes and mistakes than to always make those yourself.”
Kenney says women should feel empowered to speak up in the ag industry.
“If you have an idea, or if you see an opportunity, I think sometimes we’re more hesitant to step forward in those kinds of things.”
