The Growing Presence & Impact of Women in Equipment

Jan 23, 2025

In addition to strong overall attendance at the 2025 Associated Equipment Dealer (AED) 2025 Summit in Orlando, Fla., which neared 2,500, there was a marked increase in the number of women executives actively involved in the association and its events From the exhibit floor to the educational sessions and during the plethora of networking opportunities, the formidable force of female leaders in the ag equipment industry delivered an impressive range of innovative products, dealer-derived service solutions, engagement Q&A sessions and case studies in success.

Just hours before the Women in Equipment Reception hosted at the end of day one at the Summit,Steve Wentz, Business Development Specialist at AED, offered an update on the group’s growth, its evolution in recent years and its impact in the ag industry.

“About 6 years ago we launched the Women in Equipment event, trying to bring the right people in the room. At that time, we were hoping to get about 20 people. We got 30, and it’s grown every year, with the last one bringing in 127 dealers, representing over $12 billion in annual sales. t’s not a little thing anymore. It’s a great place to get involved and find a support group. Traditionally, about 20% of our AED members were involved in agriculture, and we are now up to 40% who have an ag component, some of which have ag and construction components. We remain committed to getting the right people in the room and we always welcome more to join this growing group of women in equipment and the various events which we run to bring them together.”

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