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Empowering the Next Generation -- Scholarship Opportunity for Agriculture Students

Empowering the Next Generation -- Scholarship Opportunity for Agriculture Students
Sep 19, 2025
By Denise Faguy
Assistant Editor, North American Content, Farms.com

Apply Now for a Fully Sponsored Experience at AWC East 2025 in Niagara Falls

Are you a student studying agriculture with a passion for leadership, innovation, and making a difference in the agri-food sector? The Advancing Women in Agriculture Conference (AWC) East 2025 is offering an incredible opportunity for students to attend this transformative event through its Student Sponsorship Program.

“Women have always been the backbone of Canadian farms and families. Through AWC, we’re creating a space where their voices are amplified, their leadership is nurtured, and their futures are empowered,” says Iris Meck, Founder, Advancing Women in Agriculture Conference.

The AWC East Conference will take place November 23–25, 2025 at the Sheraton Fallsview in Niagara Falls, Ontario, AWC East brings together people from across the agricultural spectrum—students, producers, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals—to learn, connect, and grow.

What the Student Sponsorship Covers
If selected as a sponsored student, a highlight for most student’s who attend the conference is the Spotlite on Student - Sponsor Networking Reception which held on Sunday evening. It’s a great event where students can meet and network with sponsors and other women in the agriculture Industry.

“The importance of networking and building strong relationships within the industry should not be underestimated,” says Meck. “The Student Reception is meant to nurture the students and ensure they have a safe space to network and engage with others who are already working in the industry.”

Selected students will receive:

  • Two nights shared accommodation at the Sheraton Fallsview (Sunday and Monday)
  • Full conference registration, including workshops, plenary sessions, networking events, meals, and receptions

This is a chance to immerse yourself in a dynamic environment of mentorship, career development, and inspiration—at no cost for registration or lodging.

What You’ll Need to Apply
To complete your application, you’ll need:

  • Contact information for your Department Head
  • A brief written description of your background, education, and work experience
  • A short essay on why you want to attend AWC and how it aligns with your career goals
  • A YouTube video (under 3 minutes) introducing yourself, your studies, and your aspirations
  • A profile photo suitable for publishing

Deadline to apply is Tuesday, September 30, 2025.

“A huge THANK YOU for giving me the wonderful opportunity to attend the Advancing Women Conference this past week," said University of Guelphstudent Christine B after attending the confernce. "I had so much fun meeting some friendly faces, talking about agriculture, and learning about all the different job opportunities in the field. I was able to make so many wonderful connections and made new friends, and it is all thanks to you for organizing this event and sponsoring be to attend.” 

Why You Should Apply
AWC is more than a conference—it’s a launchpad for future leaders in agriculture. Past attendees have walked away with new connections, fresh perspectives, and the confidence to pursue bold goals in their careers. Whether you're interested in farming, agri-business, research, or policy, AWC offers tools and inspiration to help you thrive. If you're ready to invest in yourself and your future, don’t miss this opportunity. Apply today and take the next step in your journey in agriculture.

Apply for the AWC East 2025 Student Sponsorship.

Not a student, but would love to network with like-minded people in agriculture? Click here for more information about the Advancing Women in Agriculture Conference East 2025.

 

 

 


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What happens when a dairy farmer gets frustrated with equipment that isn’t doing its job? In this episode, we sit down with Horning Manufacturing founder Leon Horning to hear how a problem in the feed bunk led to a globally recognized forage equipment company.

Born out of a third-generation dairy operation in Pennsylvania, Horning Manufacturing started with one goal: helping cows get more nutrition from silage. Leon shares how his father, Leon Sr., built the first kernel processor rolls in the family farm shop after seeing whole corn kernels pass through cows undigested — costing valuable feed efficiency and milk production.

We explore the company’s journey from a side project on the farm to an international manufacturer serving dairy farmers, beef operators, and custom harvesters around the world. Along the way, Leon discusses the evolution of pull-type forage harvesters, the engineering behind Horning’s “plug-and-play” kernel processor kits, and why reducing downtime during harvest can make or break a season.

The conversation also dives into Horning’s row-independent corn heads, practical equipment design, real-world customer stories, and how innovations born in the field continue to shape the company today.

Whether you’re a producer, equipment enthusiast, or simply love stories of grassroots innovation, this episode offers a fascinating look at how one farm family turned necessity into industry-changing technology.

Contact Horning Manufacturing today at 717-354-5040
https://www.horningmfg.com/