The Power of Women in Ag Tech: A Recap of the 2024 WiAT Gathering at The VISION Conference

The Women in Ag Tech (WiAT) community came together in Glendale, Arizona for their second in-person gathering ahead of the much-anticipated 2024 The VISION Conference. The event, held on January 22, showcased the strength and knowledge of women in the ag tech industry and delivered a day filled with insightful discussions and empowering moments.

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Women in Ag Tech (WiAT) gathered in person for the second time prior to the 2024 VISION Conference January 22 in Glendale, AZ.
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CropLife Group Editor Lara Sowinski welcomed the attendees, many of whom were first-timers.
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WiAT had a special keynote speaker from the FBI to offer insights on cybersecurity.
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WiAT attendees were engaged in all the presentations and eager to participate.
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Ask an Ambassador session featured Vonnie Estes, International Fresh Produce Association, and Kathleen Glass, AquaSpy.
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A discussion on Mentorship, Coaching, and Cross-Generational Insight was moderated by Heather Tunstall and featured panelists Nancy Bohl Bormann, Kristen Smith Eshaya, and Joyce Hunter.
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Jennifer Goldston, AgTech PR, moderated the discussion with women in the industry with strategic approaches for thriving in ag tech, joined by Dr. Andrea Arias, Carolyn Gunkel, and Martha Montoya.
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Wendy Ell with Industries in Transition came from north of the border to open pathways for growth and opportunities to collaborate with ag tech companies in Canada.
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Biotechnology attorney Cassie Edgar led one of the small group discussions on Career Advancement.
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Small group discussions offered the chance for women to engage on a more personal level.
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Small group topics included Career Advancement and Gen AI in Ag Tech.
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Women in Ag Tech wrapped up their second in-person meeting excited to take part in the VISION Conference.

A highlight of the day was a special keynote address by an FBI Special Agent, offering valuable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity. This underscored the increasing importance of digital security in the ag tech sector and provided attendees with crucial knowledge to safeguard their work and organizations.

Throughout the conference attendees were able to seek advice and gain insights from experienced professionals, enriching the event with practical wisdom. Panelists throughout the day shared their experiences, emphasizing the importance of mentorship in the professional journey and offering valuable perspectives, providing attendees with a roadmap for success no matter where they are in their careers.

Wendy Ell, representing Industries in Transition from Canada, brought an international perspective, highlighting opportunities for collaboration and growth in the ag tech sector beyond borders.

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As the WiAT gathering concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of empowerment, ready to actively participate and contribute to the upcoming The VISION Conference. The event was not just a meeting; it was a celebration of the resilience, expertise, and collaborative spirit of women shaping the future of ag tech.