Imagine how your life could be enhanced with a little inspiration, a bit of pertinent information, a few tips on how to handle issues and having the opportunity to network and share stories with like-minded women!

Lynda Campbell

District Manager TD Agriculture Services, TD Bank, Calgary, AB

Sponsor Leader Panel

Discussion • Women in agriculture

Discussion overview: The agriculture industry is complex and ever-evolving. In the current environment, what strategies can women employ to become effective leaders? Reflecting on your career, what shifts have you observed in the realm of female leadership? What are the barriers hindering their progress? Additionally, where do women demonstrate remarkable proficiency, and in what areas do we encounter persistent challenges that require attention?

Prairie girl from Manitoba that grew up with 5 siblings. We were taught to work hard and we also played hard. Both my parents come from family farms. My grandparents both immigrated from Europe. I truly believe that the backbone of our great country is Agriculture. You never have to dig very deep and there are farming roots. I am grateful for the opportunity today to work with Agriculture prime producers and Agri Business entrepreneurs. Moving to Alberta and being close to the mountains allows me to refuel by spending time in the mountains. i also enjoy biking, golfing, reading, pottery and most of all spending time doing all of this with family and friends.

Amanda Crook

Agronomy Manager, Western North America, McCain Foods, Burdett, AB

Workshop Speaker

Workshop title  •  Leading with Curiosity and Leaning into your Strengths

Ever wonder how to create, foster and celebrate a stellar female relationship that supports you professionally and personally? Visit with us about our journey and explore your opportunity to find your leading with curiosity, confidence and cheerleader.

Sponsor Leader Panel

Discussion • Women in agriculture

The agriculture industry is complex and ever-evolving. In the current environment, what strategies can women employ to become effective leaders? Reflecting on your career, what shifts have you observed in the realm of female leadership? What are the barriers hindering their progress? Additionally, where do women demonstrate remarkable proficiency, and in what areas do we encounter persistent challenges that require attention?

Amanda Crook, M.Sc. (2016), brings over 13 years of experience in the potato industry and has been a valued team member at McCain Foods since 2022. As the Agronomy Manager for Western North America, she leads efforts to enhance agronomic practices and sustainability across Alberta, Washington, and Idaho. Amanda collaborates closely with local agronomists to provide expert variety management guidance, agronomic extension services, and support for farm partners adopting regenerative agriculture practices on a commercial scale.

Passionate about strengthening food and agricultural systems, Amanda is dedicated to safeguarding the future through her work. She is committed to empowering others by sharing her journey as a female professional in agriculture, inspiring individuals to explore the dynamic and meaningful opportunities the industry offers. Amanda takes pride in honoring the legacy of the women who have paved the way in agriculture, while actively contributing to creating pathways for the next generation of women to join and excel in the field.

Dr. Gail Cunningham

Touch of Humanity Inc., Kelsey, AB

Workshop Speaker – Workshop One:

Workshop title • Cultivating Change: Women’s Stories of Leaving Careers for Farming

Leaving a corporate job after 17 years, I had the opportunity to reconnect with women in my community working full-time on the farm. All of these women had advanced degrees and for a diverse set of reasons left their career at various time points to work in Agriculture. These stories inspired my journey, filled my cup, provided support, life lessons, and new friendships that bear sharing.

Workshop Two:

Workshop title • Don’t Sweat It- Perimenopause/Menopause Basics and Practical Strategies

Living in Perimenopause/ menopause is a bit like walking up to see what weird thing will happen with your body today. Tired of aches, pains, and hot flashes, I dug into the world of Menopause. I will share my journey including symptoms, having meaningful conversations with your physician about treatment options, and daily strategies to feel your best. There is no one sizes fits all!!!

Dr. Gail Cunningham was raised on a mixed farm near Camrose, Alberta, obtained a B.Sc. in Animal Science from the University of Alberta in 1992 and a DVM from WCVM in 1996. She worked in mixed animal practice, primarily in beef and dairy production medicine, until completing a Master of Veterinary Science degree in Epidemiology in 2001 at WCVM. At that time, she joined Marshall Swine Health Services in Camrose, Alberta doing exclusively swine practice and contract research. After the birth of her second daughter, she left practice and worked in the pharmaceutical industry for 17 years. She recently left that position and launched her own company, “Touch of Humanity Inc., aimed at doing projects that bring the importance of the human touch back to agriculture and agribusiness. She believes women play a key role in striking the balance between technology and humanity. She and her husband also own and operate a fourth-generation 2000-acre grain farm by Kelsey Alberta and have two daughters, aged 20 and 19.

Bobbie-Jo Curle

Vice President Insurance, AgriStability, & LPI, AFSC, Lacombe, AB

Plenary Speaker

Presentation title • Big Dreams, Small Towns: Taking Risks and Growing Your Career

Presentation overview: Growing up on a farm in rural southern Alberta, I learned the value of hard work, resilience and taking risks early on. Over my 16 years at AFSC, I’ve navigated numerous roles, made bold career moves – including relocating to Lacombe – and discovered how stepping outside of my comfort zone unlocked unexpected growth and success.

Bobbie-Jo was raised on a modest farm near Claresholm, Alberta, on land her great-grandfather homesteaded over 120 years ago. Deeply connected to her agricultural roots, her son is now the fifth generation to work alongside her family, who continue to farm the land today. With a profound passion for agriculture and its sustainability, Bobbie-Jo has dedicated 16 years to AFSC, where her work contributes to the growth and sustainability of the agriculture industry in Alberta. Through a career defined by bold decisions and a willingness to take risks, she has risen to her current role as Vice President of Insurance, AgriStability, & LPI. Bobbie-Jo’s journey reflects her commitment to supporting the agricultural community and her belief in the power of resilience and hard work.

Patti Durand

Strategic Action Planner, Author, Humboldt, SK

Workshop Speaker

Workshop title • Start Where You Are and Lead the Way

Workshop overview: Wherever we are in life, change is constant and we are always in transition to the next stage – whether in career, family or business. Let’s talk about some proven ways to have an impact and be an effective leader, no matter what your title is.

Patti grew up in a family business near Teulon, MB. A 27 year PAg, with a background in entrepreneurship and finance, Patti has guided hundreds of Canadian farm business families to confidently navigate the paths of transition decision making. She is also a Family Enterprise Advisor and leadership coach. As a dynamic speaker and workshop leader, Patti aims to provide relatable, actionable ideas to help business families move ahead, together and with certainty. Her positivity, practical experience and strategic brain means Patti can help “move a lot of dirt” quickly toward impactful results to achieve business and personal goals.

The Future Leader – The Successor’s Guide to Family Business Leadership answers the question, “What if successors started preparing for leadership earlier and were encouraged to lead the process?” This book is Patti Durand’s offering to help create that possibility. The Future Leader is a resource that draws on the many lessons she observed while coaching and facilitating hundreds of family business conversations. www.thefutureleader.ca

Denise Faguy

Director, Marketing and Operations, Farms.com, Guelph, ON

Banquet Speaker

Topic: May you live in interesting times

The agriculture industry is living through interesting times, many of which we cannot control. But agriculture has always been about adapting, learning, and evolving, and that is what we will continue to do.  Times of change always present opportunities, be sure to seize these opportunities as they arise.  As one door closes another always opens.

Denise has been with Farms.com for close to 25 years and has 40 years of communications and public relations experience. She has held many roles, but her passions remain in communications and public relations. Denise was born in Saskatchewan but grew up in fabulous Quebec City, and while she has sadly never lived on a farm, she has been married to a former farmer for more than 25 years. She has learned a great deal about cash crops and farming over the years, but she is passionate about alternative energies such as solar and wind. There is nothing she enjoys more than listening to Sting while enjoying high tea with friends and family.

Dianne Finstad

Moderator/Program Host, Red Deer County, AB

Master of Ceremonies

Dianne Finstad used her southern Alberta farm roots to build what’s become a long communications career in television, radio and writing; covering agriculture and rodeo. She’s based in the Red Deer area and is honored to have been part of the AWC family from the start. Dianne serves on the board for Lakeland College, and is a past board member at Westerner Park. Along with Emceeing, announcing and writing stories, you can find Dianne on RFD-TV Canada and The Cowboy Channel Canada with her show called Frontline Farming Canada.

Sarah Foster

President/ Senior Seed Analyst, 20/20 Seed Labs Inc., Nisku, AB

Plenary Speaker

Presentation title • Between us Girls

Presentation overview: Humour is one of our most valuable assets in life, humour gets us through difficult situations without killing ourselves.

Sarah has been involved in the seed industry since the late 1970s. With an early passion for plants and agricultural botany she found a career in seed testing. A keen interest in seed physiology and crop inspection she is sought after internationally. She has established a Chilean based seed laboratory and is an international technical auditor with the International Seed Testing Association. She strongly believes in bringing new ideas, innovation and policy change for the betterment of the seed and agricultural industry.

After qualifying at the National Institute of Agricultural Botany in Cambridge, England she began her career as a seed analyst at Sharps Seed International, UK and later emigrated to Canada in 1984 to work with The United Grain Growers.

In 1989, 35 years ago Sarah started 20/20 Seed Labs Inc. which is a highly accredited, independent lab operating in three locations, Chile, Alberta and Manitoba.

20/20 Seed labs is an authorized ISTA laboratory, CFIA accredited, and ISO registered also holding membership in Seeds Canada, CSGA, SCST, and ISSS.

20/20 Seed Labs provides services for all crop kinds, including extensive quality and seed health analysis, molecular testing, and accredited crop inspection. They also offer training, consulting, and provide space for grow-out trials in their greenhouse for plant breeders and research.

Sarah was the recipient of the Canadian Seed Trade Association 2013 Seed Achievement award and in 2017 received an Outstanding Service Achievement award from the Association of Alberta Seed Plants. In 2019 Sarah was a winner of the Business Edmonton and Business Calgary Entrepreneur of the Year. She has held various executive positions with the Commercial Seed Analysts Association of Canada, including National President. She is currently Vice President of Seeds Canada and chairperson of the seed testing and quality assurance committee also with Seeds Canada.

Kalysha Hanrahan

thinkAG Manager, Agriculture in the Classroom, St John’s, NL

Breakfast Session Speaker

Session title • Think “Ag” with Agriculture in the Classroom Canada

Session overview: This presentation by Agriculture in the Classroom Canada highlights innovative programs and resources designed to inspire and connect youth with diverse careers in agriculture, ensuring a sustainable future. Attendees will engage with interactive tools, learn about impactful initiatives, and discuss strategies to bridge gaps in agricultural education and career awareness.

Kalysha is a seasoned project manager with more than eight years of experience in the agriculture industry, including two years working with AITC-NL, she was a part of Minister Bibeau’s inaugural Canadian Agriculture Youth Council (2020-2022). Based in Paradise, Newfoundland, the Kalysha is a strong advocate for the importance of agriculture education and looks forward to engaging with a national audience to showcase careers in agriculture and inspire the next generation to get involved.

Melody Garner-Skiba

Owner, Rocking Heart Ranch, Waterton, AB

Plenary Speaker

Presentation title • Unstoppable Together: Embrace Change, Build Connections, and Believe in Your Power!

Presentation overview: Think about how your life would be if you embraced change, tackled challenges head on, and had some amazing connections in your life! Melody will walk you through her journey home and how she relies on the tools and tips of her twenty plus years spent off the farm to do just this and how she continues to use them in her everyday life.

Melody Garner-Skiba has spent her life with one foot in agriculture and one foot in industry.  Raised at Rocking Heart Ranch when it was a cow/calf operation she spent her childhood on the back of a horse and working alongside her dad as his “hired man”. Graduating from the U of L with a Bachelor of Management, she has spent the last 23 years in various senior and executive leadership positions in a variety of industries including non-profit, hospitality, construction, and until recently as the ED of the Alberta Sugar Beet Growers and President of the Canadian Sugar Beet Producers.  She switched her focus to be full time back at home running the family ranch which includes an equine breeding operation, agri-tourism and learning venture, and selling aggregate. She also started a new consulting firm called “Garnering Results” which focuses on providing services for various sectors including agriculture, non-profits, and economic development.  She is a wife, mother, and a recipient of the 2023 AFSC Women in Ag Award as well as current President of the Lethbridge Therapeutic Riding Association and Past President of the Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce.  Her passion is building community and people to ensure the ag industry is strong and growing!

Jennifer Keable

Burnout Prevention & Well-Being Expert, The New You, Calgary, AB

Workshop Speaker – Workshop One:

Workshop title • Burn Bright, Not Out: 3 Steps to Ditch Burnout for Good

Uncover the hidden beliefs and habits driving burnout and explore how to redefine success for true fulfillment. You’ll leave with a personalized roadmap to live a balanced, energized life that aligns with your highest goals—personally and professionally.

Workshop Two:

Workshop title • Breaking Free: Boundaries to Survive Not Just Survive

Uncover how boundaries are the essential foundation for success and thriving relationships. You’ll identify your unique boundary style, explore three essential types of boundaries, and gain a practical, four-step process to set boundaries that empower and sustain you.

Jennifer Keable is a leading authority in Burnout Prevention and Well-Being, renowned for her powerful, results-driven approach to creating sustainable success. With a BA in Psychology and her own journey as a two-time burnout survivor, Jennifer brings deeply relatable and proven strategies that inspire impactful change. Over the past four years, she has excelled as a 1:1 transformational coach, speaker, and consultant, with 85% of her clients achieving career advancements, salary increases, and profound well-being gains.

Corporate clients commend her sessions as invaluable opportunities to step back from daily demands, build resilience, and implement actionable plans that drive retention. Jennifer has shared her transformative insights with industry leaders like Shell, BMO, and Cargill, empowering professionals to elevate both personal and professional growth.

Leanne LaBrash

Training Development Lead, Red Deer Polytechnic, Red Deer, AB

Workshop Speaker

Workshop title  •  Leading with Curiosity and Leaning into your Strengths

Ever wonder how to create, foster and celebrate a stellar female relationship that supports you professionally and personally? Visit with us about our journey and explore your opportunity to find your leading with curiosity, confidence and cheerleader.

Leanne LaBrash, Training Development Lead, has always approached her work in Continuing Education and Corporate Training in innovative ways. Leanne has strategically explored the development of new programs ensuring that Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) remains at the forefront of innovative education and community development opportunities.  Her expertise, dedication and collaborative spirit have helped to advance the priorities of the Polytechnic, particularly within trades and corporate training initiatives. Leanne has been skilled at building trust and increasing collaboration with a variety of stakeholders regionally, provincially, nationally and internationally. These efforts have helped pave the way for transformative learning experiences that transcend cultural and geographic boundaries.  As one example, she has helped strengthen RDP’s relationship with NESC-Technical Institute located in Trinidad and Tobago. This partnership has increased technical and vocational opportunities in the Caribbean, contributing to its skilled labour force and economy.

Ashley Nicholls

Founder, DiSC Facilitator, REACH Agriculture Strategies, Foothills, AB

Workshop Speaker

Workshop title • “Not That Gate, The Other Gate!” – What Our Livestock Can Teach Us About Effective Communication

Workshop overview: “Cut out the red one, shut that gate, not that gate!” There are many stressful jobs on farms and ranches, none perhaps more stressful than working livestock. Take a deep dive into how livestock can teach us a thing or two about effective communication and working together.

I am originally from a small farming community in NSW, Australia and now reside in Foothills County. What started as a 3-month summer adventure to live out my cowboy dream turned into 14 years, a wife, a pony named Pineapple and multiple passports. I was not raised in an Ag family, but I was lucky enough to be around, and work with, several mixed farming operations.

I am a passionate advocate for Canadian Agriculture, driven by a deep appreciation for the vital role it plays in our environment and society. My company, REACH Agriculture Strategies, works to cultivate resilient workplace cultures, improve staff retention, and enhance hiring practices. With a progressive approach to leadership and a focus on effective communication, we take our customized programs to help producers get boots on the ground and keep them there.

Aimee Parker

Director, W by ATB, ATB Financial, Edmonton, AB

Workshop Speaker

Workshop title • Gender Intelligence: Unlocking Your Power

Workshop overview: Every woman, whether a W by ATB client–from c-suite executives to agriculture leaders, from farmers to owners of other established businesses–is unique and has unique experiences because of her gender. Join us for a discussion on gender intelligence where we dive into the research, debunk some common myths and explore how we can bring more gender intelligence into our world. This session will leave you with insights and tips to integrate into your own life and leadership.

Aimee is a passionate champion for women in business ignited by her own experience as a successful beauty venture owner in Alberta. Joining ATB in 2018, she’s helped scale businesses across diverse industries as an entrepreneurial strategist, branch manager and relationship manager.

As Director of W by ATB, Aimee is dedicated to creating remarkable banking experiences to accelerate women-led and women-owned businesses in Alberta and beyond, removing barriers to capital and access to expertise.

Aimee has a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Alberta and is accredited through the W by ATB EveryWoman Accreditation Program.

“When I started my career in the beauty industry, I was fortunate to be surrounded by inspiring leaders who advocated for women to be heard, celebrated and empowered. Throughout my professional career and journey as a business owner, I never forgot their incredible support and mentorship. It is my personal commitment to continue advancing women in business and leadership through my work. At W by ATB, I want our clients to know they have more than a great ‘banking’ advisor on their side—they have a business partner, ally and advocate dedicated to her success.”

Meghan Pedros

Business Program Manager, Banker Confidence, Customer & Colleague Engagement Strategy, TD Business Banking, Oakville, ON

Workshop Speaker

Workshop title • Show up and STAND OUT!

Workshop overview: Confidence gives us courage, resilience, motivation and a belief in our own ability to succeed. In this guided workshop, you’ll learn tips and tricks on how to build confidence and enhance your personal brand so you can show up, stand out and achieve your full potential.

Meghan Pedros is a career-oriented wife, hockey mom, marathoner, mentor and brand ambassador with a passion for developing others through inspiration, mentorship and integrity.  With her almost two decade career with TD, she has held a series of progressive roles in Retail, Direct Channels, Wealth Management and Human Resources, to name a few.  Having led several leadership development programs across the bank, Meghan holds a strong passion for inspiring and developing others to maximize their full potential in any role they acquire.  In her current role as National Manager, Business Banking Programs, Meghan leads the diversity sourcing and recruitment strategy for our Associate Programs across Canada while continuing to play an active role in supporting Women in Leadership initiatives both internally and externally.

Ashley Perepelkin

Co-Owner, Perepelkin Farms, Perepelkin Farms, Condor, AB

Plenary Speaker

Presentation title • From the Ground Up

Presentation overview: How I built a successful farm to table beef program, a newly founded tallow lotion cosmetic line, and what the future looks like for Perepelkin Farms.

Ashley lives on a farm with her husband and four children, along with her 100 cow calf pairs, fat steers, replacement heifers and bull prospects. Born and raised in the city Ashley was not privy to the farm life, however, through continuing education, trials and tribulations Ashley has become a successful herdsman as well as business owner though ‘farm to table’ beef sales, and newly founded beef tallow lotion. Ashley always has an ‘open door’ policy on the farm and if you ever come over and can not find her, just head down to the barn and that’s where she will be. Coming from the city and moving to the farm has given Ashley the opportunity to build a program from the ground up. Come to the speech to learn more about Ashley and her journey.

Kristin J. Pronschinske

Business Consultant, River Falls, Wisconsin

Plenary Speaker

Presentation title • Generational Communications

Presentation overview: Ever wonder why how each generation has difficulties talking with other generations?  This presentation will discuss how each generation grew up and the why’s and how’s of communicating with each generation.

Kristin grew up on a dairy farm in Western Wisconsin where she was heavily involved with the family business.  Starting at eight years of age, Kristin was found in the dairy show rings showing her Holsteins and judging dairy competitions for 4-H and FFA.  Kristin attended the University of Wisconsin – River Falls and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing Communications with an Agricultural Emphasis, a Master of Science in Agricultural Education with an Extension option, and an MBA.  Kristin also received a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Colorado State University where she is also a Distinguished Scholar.  Kristin holds an International Advanced Leadership certification from the University of Stockholm – Sweden Executive School.

Kristin Pronschinske is a Business Consultant with NuVue Consulting.  She has a passion for people, training, coaching, developing employees and strategic business growth.  Kristin’s career expands from developing new business markets and territories, managing sales teams, developing and executing corporate strategies and international business.  Additionally, she has coached and trained sales teams and leadership development across North America.

Kristin resides close to the Twin Cities of Minneapolis/St. Paul where she is heavily involved with her community.  She currently serves as President to the UW – River Falls’ College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences Alumni Board, and Vice President to the Board of Directors for Basics for Local Kids.  Kristin enjoys spending time with her Family, traveling, skiing, snowshoeing, motorcycling, golfing and being active with her dairy genetic business.

Cami Ryan

Industry Affairs and Sustainability, Bayer CropScience Canada, Okotoks, AB

Plenary Speaker

Presentation title • The Heat is On! Resiliency and Leadership in Ag

Presentation overview: Like crops surviving and thriving nature and other uncertainties, women in agriculture are cultivating opportunities in leadership. It’s not always easy. It requires resilience, the ability to manage resources effectively, and the courage to push back on biases and break through barriers. This talk celebrates the collective and resilient power of women – as leaders and as storytellers – and provides tools to define and redefine success in a historically male-dominated industry.

Cami Ryan, BComm, PhD, is the Senior Business Partner for Industry Affairs and Sustainability at Bayer Crop Science Canada. She’s also a Bayer Science Fellow and a Professional Affiliate with the College of Agriculture at the University of Saskatchewan. With a diverse background in social sciences and economics, Dr. Ryan is a strong advocate for science-driven policies in the agriculture sector. She’s an active researcher, currently looking into how the “attention” economy and social media influence public opinion, shape regulatory decisions, and impact the agriculture industry’s ability to operate. Cami often shares her expertise as a guest on podcasts, in editorials, and across various media channels. She lives in the Foothills of Alberta with her husband, Blair, on a small acreage filled with their beloved critters. In her free time, Cami enjoys being a grandmother, creating art, diving into books, and restoring vintage dollhouses.

Angela Santiago

CEO, Co-Founder, The Little Potato Company, Nisku, AB

Plenary Speaker

Presentation title • Rooted in Values: Growing The Little Potato Company

Presentation overview: In this intimate fireside chat with Angela, she will detail how staying true to her values has helped keep her authentic and grounded, enabling her own personal and professional growth and also that of The Little Potato Company.

Angela Santiago, CEO of The Little Potato Company Ltd., co-founded the company with her father, Jacob Vander Schaaf, a Dutch immigrant who longed for the tasty little potatoes of his youth.

After graduating from university with a Political Science Degree, Angela became intrigued when her father asked her to help bring his idea of little potatoes to fruition. In 1996, the two began with a one-acre plot of potatoes—grown and washed by hand to sell at local farmers’ markets. Local chefs, consumers, and retailers loved the potatoes and the company quickly grew. Today, partnered with family farms across North America, the company’s potatoes are sold in more than 20,000 stores across Canada, the USA, and Mexico.

Angela is a wife and mother of four and the family bond has been at the root of The Little Potato Company since it began. The importance of family remains a core value, living strong today through the families of our staff, growers, and consumers.

The belief that everyone, everywhere deserves healthy, flavourful, and nutritious food drives Angela to develop efficient and sustainable ways to grow potatoes. It also guides innovation as the company strives to improve all details of the product, from breeding new varietals to packaging. Her quest for new potato varieties takes her to regions of the world where potato roots run deep, with breeding programs in South America, Europe and Canada. The results are demonstrated by providing consumers with proprietary potatoes in an array of colours and flavours.

Carlamay Sheremata

Author, Speaker, Facilitator and Retired Police Officer, Calgary, AB

Plenary Speaker

Presentation title • Being Pink In A Blue World

In any profession dominated by traditional expectations, embracing one’s feminine identity can feel like an uphill battle. Being Pink in a Blue World explores the power of staying authentic, celebrating empathy and resilience, and redefining what it means to be a woman in environments that often seem overwhelmingly masculine.

Workshop Speaker

Workshop title • Too Busy for Connection: Rekindling Bonds With Our Kids in a Hectic World

Carlamay guides parents to find meaningful ways to connect and have those hard but necessary conversations with their kids amid busy schedules. This session offers practical strategies for turning everyday moments into lasting bonds, focusing on presence, quality, and small but impactful interactions that foster trust and connection.

With over two decades in law enforcement, Carlamay Sheremata has made her mark across various specialized units, bringing compassion and resilience to every role. A dedicated advocate for the empowerment of women and youth, Carlamay has been a steady pillar of support for those around her. Her life has been shaped by remarkable resilience, marked by her journey through cancer survival, single parenthood, and the ongoing complexities of living with PTSD. Refusing to be limited by societal expectations, Carlamay embraced an unconventional path, forging a unique journey defined by purpose, empathy, and determination.

Beyond her law enforcement career, Carlamay has turned her experiences into a narrative that aims to bridge generational divides. Her book Youth Truth addresses the pressing need for understanding between youth and the adults in their lives, providing insight into the often unspoken questions and concerns that today’s youth wish their parents, teachers, and mentors understood. Carlamay’s mission is to amplify young voices, encouraging genuine conversations that extend beyond traditional communication boundaries.

Outside of her professional life, Carlamay finds joy in singing, community service, and cherishing moments with her husband, son, and loved ones. Committed to creating a lasting legacy, she strives to blend her personal and professional experiences to leave a meaningful impact, empowering others to find their voices and connect with the younger generation in transformative ways.

Tara Schneider

Executive Financial Consultant, T. Schneider & Associates – IG Wealth Management, Leduc, AB

Workshop Speaker

Workshop title • Harvesting Financial Success: Why every farm needs a trusted advisor

Workshop overview: As the backbone of the family and farm, women carry the weight of daily operations, financial decisions, and future planning. Balancing these responsibilities while ensuring long-term stability can be overwhelming – but you don’t have to do it alone. Join this empowering session to learn how an experienced financial advisor is crucial for protecting your farm, your family, and your future. As we know, when women lead – farms and families thrive.

Tara Schneider is a dedicated financial professional with over 15 years experience in wealth management.  She began her career with IG Wealth Management in 2009, opened her own office in Leduc in 2011, and expanded to a larger space in 2016.  In 2023, she incorporated T. Schneider & Associates, reinforcing her commitment to comprehensive financial planning. She holds multiple industry designations including RRC (2016), CFP (2017) and CLU (2021), and is currently pursuing the TEP designation to further her expertise in estate planning. Beyond her professional achievements, Tara is deeply involved in the community, contributing to numerous organizations and actively promoting financial literacy. She educates youth, young adults and business owners, empowering them with financial knowledge.

As a proud farm family advocate, Tara plays a key role in supporting the growth and transition of her family’s grain operation. She understands the complexities of farm succession and collaborates with lawyers, accountants, tax planners and bookkeepers to ensure farm families and business owners receive strategic guidance for long-term success. With a strong commitment to her clients, community and family, Tara brings both expertise and passion to everything she does.

Shanyn Silinski

Senior Strategic Partner, Olds College, Acme, AB

Workshop Speaker

Workshop title • Foundations of Teamwork, Brick by Brick

Workshop overview: Teamwork and building teams doesn’t have to be hard, it can have elements of fun! Join in and see how ‘brick it out’ with your team.

Shanyn is a writer, photographer, presenter, artist, and researcher. Focus on agriculture, ag-tech, emergency disaster response, vulnerable populations, and mental health.

A published author, and writer for publications, blogs, and technical and training material development. Editor and writer for newsletters with high open rates. I am deeply connected to agriculture across many sectors. Speaker, presenter, and trainer for live events, workshops, virtual or in-person. Dynamic, personable, and able to make complex ideas approachable. Developed programs for emergency responders, and training programs for farm safety and worked with young ag-tech leaders in developing learning materials. From cab to computer, camera to keyboard – multi-talented, professional, and passionate.

Sheryl Troup

Assistant Vice President, Tax & Estate Planning, IG Wealth Management, Winnipeg, MB

Workshop Speaker

Workshop title • Tips for a successful succession – understanding tax opportunities related to the transfer of your farm

Workshop overview: In this session we will cover tax planning opportunities unique to farmers. We will also address family dynamics and the importance a detailed succession plan, supported by real-life examples and best practices.

Sheryl is a Chartered Professional Accountant who brings a depth of experience in both accounting and tax to client cases involving high-net-worth individuals, owner-managed businesses, and farms. Her key areas of focus include corporate tax, personal tax planning, as well as succession planning for business owners and farm & fishing families. In addition to being a CPA, Sheryl has completed the CICA In-Depth tax program & Advanced Tax Courses, and she holds the Trust and Estate Practitioner, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and Chartered Life Underwriter designations. Prior to joining IG, she worked at a national accounting firm for 11 years.

Lauren Younker

PhD, Production Consultant, TELUS Agriculture & Consumer Goods, Irma, AB

Sponsor Leader Panel

Discussion • Women in agriculture

Discussion overview: The agriculture industry is complex and ever-evolving. In the current environment, what strategies can women employ to become effective leaders? Reflecting on your career, what shifts have you observed in the realm of female leadership? What are the barriers hindering their progress? Additionally, where do women demonstrate remarkable proficiency, and in what areas do we encounter persistent challenges that require attention?

Lauren is a dedicated advocate for the beef industry, combining hands-on experience with a strong academic background. Growing up on a third-generation family farm in southern Alberta, she developed a passion for agriculture, which led her to pursue a PhD in Animal Science. Her education spans the University of Saskatchewan, Texas Tech, and the University of Nebraska, providing her with a diverse perspective on cattle production.  She currently works as the IAM Data and Technical Projects Lead for TELUS Agriculture, where she helps producers worldwide optimize cattle marketing strategies. Her expertise spans beyond North America, having gained valuable experience in Kazakhstan, futher strengthening her global knowledge. Beyond her professional role, Lauren is committed to shaping the future of Canadian agriculture. As a member of the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council, she actively contributes to discussions on policy, innovation, and sustainability, ensuring that young voices are head in shaping the industry’s future. She is also passionate about mentorship, striving to support and uplift the next generation of women in agriculture.

Kendra Wack

Executive Director, FEAD (Female Entrepreneurs in Agri-Food Development), Saskatoon, SK

Sponsor Leader Panel

Discussion • Women in agriculture

Discussion overview: The agriculture industry is complex and ever-evolving. In the current environment, what strategies can women employ to become effective leaders? Reflecting on your career, what shifts have you observed in the realm of female leadership? What are the barriers hindering their progress? Additionally, where do women demonstrate remarkable proficiency, and in what areas do we encounter persistent challenges that require attention?

Kendra is a passionate advocate for the agriculture and food sectors. She believes that food security starts with ensuring economic security for primary producers and food processors. Kendra has had experience along the entire agri-food supply chain ranging from crop genetics, input and machinery sales, primary production, product development, and food manufacturing. She is the youngest graduate on record from Edwards School of Business MBA at the University of Saskatchewan, she also holds a B. Ed. in Home Economics. Kendra was able to merge her passions of business, education, entrepreneurship, and agriculture recently as the Executive Director of FEAD (Female Entrepreneurs in Agri-Food Development) where she directs a nationally recognized leading non-profit supporting value-added production and food processing businesses across Canada. Kendra is an independent business consultant specializing in healthcare and agri-food sectors. She currently sits on the Board of Director of SIGMA (USask- College of Engineering), as well as Agriculture in the Classroom (SK).

Erin Wilson

Vice President, Private Wealth Management, IG Wealth Management, Calgary, AB

Workshop Speaker

Workshop title • Harvesting Financial Success: Why every farm needs a trusted advisor

As the backbone of the family and farm, women carry the weight of daily operations, financial decisions, and future planning. Balancing these responsibilities while ensuring long-term stability can be overwhelming – but you don’t have to do it alone. Join this empowering session to learn how an experienced financial advisor is crucial for protecting your farm, your family, and your future. As we know, when women lead – farms and families thrive.

Sponsor Leader Panel

Discussion title • Women in agriculture

The agriculture industry is complex and ever-evolving. In the current environment, what strategies can women employ to become effective leaders? Reflecting on your career, what shifts have you observed in the realm of female leadership? What are the barriers hindering their progress? Additionally, where do women demonstrate remarkable proficiency, and in what areas do we encounter persistent challenges that require attention?

A systems thinker in the financial services industry, Erin has built her reputation on translating complex ideas across disciplines to create practical solutions for financial advisors. Her approach challenges the traditional assumption that clients inherently understand financial planning and what it can do for them, instead focusing on making complex concepts accessible and actionably valuable.

What sets Erin apart is her deep understanding of the human elements of financial planning. While technical expertise is crucial, she recognizes that the emotional and behavioral aspects of wealth management often determine client success. This insight drives her mission to transform what clients expect from a financial planning relationship, building on the work of practitioners who emphasize life events and emotional intelligence in financial decision-making.

Erin’s commitment to staying relevant in an evolving industry isn’t just about keeping pace with change – it’s about actively shaping a future where financial planning delivers deeper, more meaningful value to clients. By bridging the gap between traditional financial services and human-centered design thinking, Erin is helping to redefine what exceptional client experience looks like in wealth management.

Dr. Brynn Winegard

Workplace Applied Neuroscience & Positive Psychology Expert, DrBrynn.com, La Quinta, California

Plenary Keynote Speaker

Presentation title • Boost My Brain! with Dr. Brynn

Presentation overview: The most complex, adaptive, and impressive computing technology still ever known exists inside you: your human brain. But how well do you truly understand or use this amazing asset? By busting brain myths and relaying the latest insights, Dr. Brynn wants to help you use your brain better to unlock your full potential and realize your most productive self, day, and work life. Dr. Brynn draws on her academic research in neuroscience, positive psychology, and corporate career to show you how to get more from your brain while asking less of your willpower. You will learn Dr. Brynn’s MERIT Framework for Peak Mental Performance – how to Move, Eat, Rest, Interact, and Think for maximum resilience, antifragility, health, and wellness. Learn about the neurochemical and hormonal factors for mental wellness and cognitive performance – and how you can ensure you’re doing the right things everyday for your hormonal health and wellbeing. Dr. Brynn makes the latest insights accessible, tangible, and actionable so you can use your very own super-technology better even as you sit in your seat.

Dr. Brynn is a Harvard-trained former Fortune 100 corporate manager turned award-winning professor, applied neuroscientist and positive psychologist who delivers practical insights from her cutting-edge research to working professionals for how to better understand & use their brains better at work.

Dr. Brynn Winegard is a global authority on human behavior in business. She is purpose-driven to help professionals stay motivated, achieve more, and sustainably reach peak mental performance at work by understanding and using their brain better. She is a multiple award-winning business professor, renowned professional speaker, and expert in applied neuroscience and positive psychology for professionals. Dr. Brynn Winegard holds multiple degrees and certificates, including an MBA and PhD, in science and business from the world’s top medical and business schools. She teaches graduate and executive learners at multiple institutions. Her research activities are now through Harvard Medical School and as a fellow with Harvard-McLean Hospital IOC Research Institute. Dr. Brynn relays proprietary science-backed insights in her new book “The Working Brain: Optimize Your Workday Performance” offered through PageTwo Publishing and currently available for pre-order (drbrynn.com/Books).

Dr. Brynn is launching a new book full of her most recent research about how employees can use their own brains better, have a myth-free understanding of how it really works, develop their own mindset beyond resilience toward antifragility, worry less about ‘AI taking their job,’ and have more confidence in their ability to perform at their peak—every workday.

Specifically, the book outlines Dr. Brynn’s MERIT Framework for Peak Mental Performance. Chapters outline how to Move, Eat, Rest, Interact, Think. Insights are jam-packed with latest thinking on movement, exercise, fitness (MOVE); eating, nutrition, diet (EAT); sleep, rest, breaks (REST); socializing, isolation, community (INTERACT); and mindset, mentality, and inner thoughts (THINK) as the 5 exhaustive pillars of resilience, antifragility, health, and wellness – at work and in life.

Kallie Wood

President & CEO, National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food, Regina, SK

Workshop Speaker

Workshop title • Challenges and solutions in advancing Indigenous Agriculture in Canada

Workshop overview: This workshop navigates the challenges and solutions in advancing Indigenous Agriculture in Canada, focusing on shared history, relationship building, reconciliation, and collaboration opportunities.

Kallie Wood is the President and CEO of the National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food (NCIAF) and is a proud member of Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation located on Treaty Four Territory in Saskatchewan. Kallie was formerly the Senior Indigenous Advisor for the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of Saskatchewan. She holds a Master of Leadership and Management studies degree and is a mother to four beautiful children and kokum to four grandchildren. As a foster parent, Kallie has many children who call her mom. Kallie has her feet planted firmly on Mother Earth and realizes that the Creator has blessed us with the gift of each day. She is a life-long learner with 35-years of experience in leadership roles with experience in organizational change, strategic planning, and program delivery with extensive experience in relationship building, reconciliation, and education. Kallie also sits on several Board of Governors across the nation, sharing a voice for Indigenous engagement and building relationships. Having grown up in a small community surrounded by friends and family in agriculture, Kallie is excited about the journey in supporting First Nation, Inuit, and Métis peoples in sustainable agriculture and food opportunities through listening, learning, and implementing change. Bringing together voices and a community of partners through the sharing of agriculture practices and business knowledge from Indigenous leaders, geographical, intergenerational, and industry-wide representation to support business creation, advance capacity building through education and training, and connect Indigenous Peoples to valuable networks, resources, and funding opportunities while honouring their tradition, lands, and Mother Earth is a recipe for success in economic growth for the good of all.

Kallie has received numerous awards for her time commitment to reconciliation, most recently awarded as one of the twenty-two most empowered and influential women internationally in 2023. She is a recognized and sought after keynote speaker and Indigenous Advisor on Indigenous issues. She is a recognized advocate, researcher and transformational change leader driven by harnessing the intrinsic value of every voice that fosters deeper conversations and a sense of belonging and appreciation in many contexts globally. She has a palpable ability to inspire and ignite a brighter future through Indigenous histories, stories, ways of knowing and being towards a better future for our children, grandchildren and those not yet born.

Lauren Van Ewyk

CEO, National Farmer Mental Health Alliance, Courtright, ON

Plenary Speaker

Presentation title • Blending the Demands: Finding Balance between Work and Life

There is a constant demand on you to be for everyone else who they need you to be. Setting boundaries, communicating and practicing self-care ensures you can blend the most critical aspects into the life you desire.

Workshop Speaker

Workshop title • Trauma: Helping others transform the hard things in life

Over 70% of women have experienced trauma at some point in their life. Trauma that is not transformed is trauma transferred. Join Lauren as we learn about trauma and how we can thrive despite it!

Sunday Special Session

Workshop title • Boots on the Ground: Helping at the next Level

What does helping someone really look like? This workshop is intended to give you the skills needed to have those tough conversations about mental health through an action-based approach. Using case studies, role-play and life application participants will tackle the barriers to mental health.

Lauren Van Ewyk is a sheep farmer, registered social worker, foster mom and agricultural mental health advocate. She has appeared in numerous radio, television and print articles concerning the issues of mental wellness and mental health in the agriculture sector. She is a PhD student at the University of Guelph in the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development (SEDRD). As a founding member and CEO of the National Farmer Mental Health Alliance, Lauren is committed to partnering with professionals to become culturally informed in their care for rural members.

Jess Verstappen

Crop Inputs Manager, Cargill LTD, Mclennan, AB

Sponsor Leader Panel

Discussion • Women in agriculture

Discussion overview: The agriculture industry is complex and ever-evolving. In the current environment, what strategies can women employ to become effective leaders? Reflecting on your career, what shifts have you observed in the realm of female leadership? What are the barriers hindering their progress? Additionally, where do women demonstrate remarkable proficiency, and in what areas do we encounter persistent challenges that require attention?

Jess Verstappen was originally born and raised in the Netherlands, at the age of 12 in august of 2008 she and her family moved to High Prairie, Alberta to build a sheep and cattle ranch. From a young age Jess was interested in agriculture and involved in various ways, a big part of her childhood was her activity in 4-H, with a focus on the livestock projects. After graduation Jess attended Lakeland College in Vermillion, and completed a diploma in Environmental Science and Agribuisness, after college Jess moved back home to northern Alberta where she has found a career at Cargill and is operating the family farm. Jess and her mom Louise run 120 purebred and commercial Angus cattle, and 150 commercial sheep and have some grainland they cultivate yearly for the farm. Jess is also a Crop Inputs Manager for Cargill Ltd in the Peace region. She oversees all crop inputs and agronomy services in the 6 locations in the peace area. Jess has always had a passion for seeing people succeed and being a part of people’s growth and development, this is one of the reasons she is excited to attend AWC and get the opportunity to share experiences that may help others see options in their career or life opportunities. I look forward to meeting many like minded women at the conference.

Jillian Vukovich

Division Manager, IG Wealth Management, Red Deer, AB

Workshop Speaker

Workshop title • Harvesting Financial Success: Why every farm needs a trusted advisor

Workshop overview: As the backbone of the family and farm, women carry the weight of daily operations, financial decisions, and future planning. Balancing these responsibilities while ensuring long-term stability can be overwhelming – but you don’t have to do it alone. Join this empowering session to learn how an experienced financial advisor is crucial for protecting your farm, your family, and your future. As we know, when women lead – farms and families thrive.

Jillian Vukovich is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) dedicated to helping families, business owners, and professionals achieve financial security and build lasting wealth. With over eight years of experience, she understands the unique needs of farm families and rural business owners, as well as those of professionals and retirees seeking tax-efficient financial solutions.

Jillian takes a practical, values-based approach to financial planning, helping clients balance short-term needs with long-term goals. She works with families to develop strategies for retirement income, business succession, and multigenerational wealth transfers. Whether it’s structuring a farm transition, protecting a family legacy, or supporting charitable causes in a tax-efficient way, her focus is always on creating financial plans that reflect what’s most important to clients.

As chair of the Women in the Field business resource group, Jillian is committed to empowering women in the financial industry. She is also a passionate advocate for philanthropy, organizing events such as Bowls for Bellies and Partnering in Philanthropy, which connect donors with opportunities to make a meaningful impact.

Jillian believes that while external factors—such as market fluctuations and economic shifts—are inevitable, the right financial plan provides clarity and peace of mind. Her goal is to simplify complex financial decisions, helping clients focus on what truly matters: their families, their future, and their financial well-being.