FIRA USA Launches Women in AgRobotics Award

Oct 01, 2025
By Denise Faguy
Assistant Editor, North American Content, Farms.com

Celebrating women leaders in agricultural robotics

FIRA USA has launched the Women in AgRobotics of the Year Award, a first-of-its-kind initiative honoring women who are shaping the future of agricultural robotics. This award will be presented during FIRA USA 2025, scheduled for October 21–23, 2025, in Woodland, California. The event is recognized globally as the leading gathering dedicated entirely to agricultural robotics.

The award highlights women who are advancing innovation in a field still largely dominated by men. It is open to entrepreneurs, engineers, farmers, researchers, and leaders whose work demonstrates vision, determination, and creativity. By spotlighting their achievements, FIRA aims to inspire more women to pursue leadership roles in agricultural technology and robotics.

“The launch of this award at FIRA USA marks a milestone for the industry,” said Elisa Abreu, Communication Officer at FIRA. “By celebrating women who are breaking barriers and leading innovation in agricultural robotics, we aim to inspire the next generation of leaders and further strengthen the global AgRobotics community.”

Nominations for the inaugural award are open until October 5, 2025. Candidates will be evaluated on their contributions to the industry, leadership skills, innovation, trailblazing efforts in a male-dominated field, and commitment to diversity.

A distinguished jury panel will oversee the evaluation process, featuring representatives from Women In Ag Magazine, California Women for Agriculture, American Agri-Women, and Women in Ag Tech.

The winner will be announced at the FIRA USA Award Ceremony on October 23, 2025. Recognition will include a trophy, media coverage, the official award logo, and membership benefits from partner organizations such as American Agri-Women and California Women for Agriculture.

This initiative marks an important milestone in highlighting women’s growing influence in agricultural robotics and reinforcing diversity within the AgTech community.

Photo Credit: FIRA-USA-2025 Women in AgRobotics Award

Video: Women in Ag. The Promotion of Female Farmers through Social Media | Madalyn Thayer | TEDxBGSU

Less than 1% of Americans are farmers. The majority of those farmers are men. Many people have minimal experience with farms and agriculture. High schools are getting rid of their FFA programs and many colleges, including BGSU, do not have agricultural programs or classes. There is a new social media phenomenon where women are making content based on their farming endeavors and gaining lots of traction. Education is the one of the most important parts of agriculture, because the more people know the more they will emphasize with farmers and create policy that benefits everybody. Female farmers have taken to social media sharing their experience in the agricultural world. These women are breaking stereotypes and educating everyday citizens about farming which is extremely important for the future of agriculture. Madalyn is 19 years old and will be gradated with her bachelors degree in communication on December 2024. She lives on a farm and have spent lots of time working in agriculture. She has her own farmers market and love learning about all subjects, especially agriculture. She was on the BGSU Firelands Student government from 2021-2023 as a CCP Ambassador and was awarded the 3&1 communication excellency award in April of 2024. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community.