A new generation of women is helping shape today’s agriculture industry. This generation brings its own perspectives, innovative ideas, and new leadership styles to the industry.
Yet they didn’t get here on their own. Today’s emerging leaders are building on the foundation laid by those who came before – a generation of experienced producers and professionals that is creating space for the next generation to thrive.
For Josie Van Lent, an experienced producer, ag professional and educator, it has been a privilege to mentor women and men throughout her career.
“This has happened many times during my career,” explained Van Lent, who was named AFSC’s Women in Ag Professional award winner in 2024. “(It) has been a natural result of some of my roles, such as my leadership roles at Lakeland College, where I was able to see talent – and again, both male and female talent – and elevate that talent.”
The power of mentorship
Support and mentorship can come from a variety of places including family, groups like 4-H and other community and industry members, said Jordyn Prior, who was named as AFSC’s 2026 Women in Ag Emergent (rising star) award winner in March.
For Prior, family played a foundational role in her journey.
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