Women in agriculture have always been important contributors to the industry. Generations of women in farming and ranching have paved the way, not just in supporting roles, but in starring leads. The contributions of yesterday’s women in agriculture have given today’s women the confidence, grit and empowerment to be leaders across various, dynamic roles in agriculture. 

In a recent study by American Farm Bureau Federation’s Women’s Leadership Committee, with support from JBS and CoBank, nearly 90 percent of women who were surveyed are interested in taking on leadership roles now or in the future. 

"The women who came before us didn't just help shape agriculture — they helped shape the opportunities many of us have today,” says Laura Haffner, Kansas Farm Bureau Women's Committee Chair and owner of High Plains Harvesting, a custom harvesting business with her husband, Ryan. “Their resilience, leadership and willingness to step forward have opened doors for future generations. As women continue taking on leadership roles on the farm, in business and in our communities, we're building on that legacy and ensuring agriculture remains strong for years to come."

Women like Virginia Kraus of Ellis County, who farmed with her husband, Harold, is proud of her position in agriculture and wants to make sure other women are empowered. Learn more about Virginia in the video below. Thank you to all of the women in agriculture for their contributions, commitment to the industry and the fortitude to create avenues for future women. Happy International Year of the Woman Farmer from Kansas Farm Bureau.