Young women learn about ag career opportunities

CARBONDALE, Ill. — High school and college ladies spent a day learning about career opportunities directly from women working in numerous types of agricultural-related jobs.

“Because this event is like none other, you have the opportunity to interact, learn and network with women of all ages from across all facts of our industry,” said Alex Russell, Field Force Excellence and Training Commercial Unit lead with Syngenta.

“Ladies, you have no idea how it feels to stand here in this moment and be up here on stage,” said Russell during Women Changing the Face of Agriculture at Southern Illinois University, organized by Illinois Agri-Women.

Russell attended the 2013 event at Southern Illinois University and is a graduate of the college.

“I remember not too long ago being a person sitting in your exact shoes,” she recalled. “I had no idea what I was getting myself into.”

As a FFA member, Russell was the girl who participated in numerous activities.

“I would sign myself up for all kinds of events,” she said.

During her welcome speech to about 600 young ladies at the career exploration event, Russell challenged all of them to learn something new.

“That could be a person, a skill, a future employer or a college you want to attend,” she said.

“I know there are many of you in this room that will end up in the ag industry and there are many of you that won’t,” Russell said. “I hope I am not the first person to tell you that either one is great.”

Women can advocate for agriculture regardless of where they are employed.

“I hope some of you will go back to the family farm, will start your own business or be doctors, nurses, therapists or ag teachers,” Russell said.

“Whatever your path that your passion takes you on, there are a couple of things you will learn here that will carry you no matter what industry you end up in,” the commercial unit lead said.

“The skills you learn at WCFA will have an impact on your personal and professional career,” she said. “You’ll meet a new friend, make a connection or a possible new co-worker, especially if you stay in the small world of agriculture.”

Russell knew many of the students attending the event.

“You have nurses for moms or sisters in grad school and they are still advocates for the ag industry,” the commercial unit lead said.

“Don’t hesitate to share your story as you walk through a grocery store or as you sit next to someone on a plane,” Russell said. “Even somebody from your small town who we assume knows the industry.”

“I can think of no better way to spend the first Friday of Women’s History Month than surrounded by a room of more than 600 women who will continue to change the face of agriculture and our industry,” she said.

“I met Alex on a horse ride and it is hard to believe that just from a horse ride, we became professional acquaintances,” said Gayle Baker, chairperson of the Women Changing the Face of Agriculture event.

“So, keep in mind, whether you’re here today, on a horse ride or hanging out with some friends, there’s always a chance to meet a new acquaintance and get opportunities out of it,” Baker said.