From running family farms to spearheading innovative agricultural practices, women have and continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of farming. This is especially evident in the dairy industry, where women are increasingly taking on leadership roles, driving sustainability and fostering community connections.

At times, I felt that just being a dairy farmer wasn’t enough. It is more than enough. As a full-time dairy farmer, especially a young female in the industry, there are so many opportunities for growth and development, and being able to work alongside family with animals that help feed the world is such an amazing opportunity.

The third annual Dairywomen’s Summit was held in March by West Coast Robotics, a Lely dealership in Agassiz, British Columbia. Around 125 women participated in the event this year, which is the largest turnout thus far.

For years, Chase Pagel of Pagel’s Ponderosa Dairy told herself she should write a children’s book about her daughter’s Jersey steer, Rosco, who loved to eat pink Pop-Tarts.

Dr. Jodi Wallace becomes the first Quebec woman to win the Bovine Practitioner of the Year award for her work with milk quality and calf care.

At its core, a Secret Santa gift exchange is all about spreading joy and happiness during the holiday season. It gives you the opportunity to make someone's day a little brighter and, in turn, experience the joy of giving.

“When only 7% of the United States $30 billion spent globally on sponsorships is directed toward sportswomen, we need change,” Milk Processor Education Program (MilkPEP) CEO Yin Woon Rani says.

Jeanette Lombardo is the executive director of the Farmer Veteran Coalition based in Waco, Texas.

Around 100 women participated in the event this year, which focused on celebrating women in the dairy industry and providing an opportunity for them to share their stories and connect with their industry colleagues.

Jennifer Redd Westfall is owner and operator of Redd Ranches based in Colorado. The family runs a Red Angus-based seedstock operation that also incorporates Angus, Simmental and Gelbvieh genetics. Jennifer oversees the registered herd and is actively involved in the day-to-day ranch management.