Who Should Attend?
AWC is created for every woman who is passionate about agriculture and food, whether you are a university or college student studying agriculture, producer, rancher, entrepreneur, representative of a grower association or corporate agribusiness. AWC is for women who want to enhance their family life, community, career, and industry through:
- communications through coaching, mentoring, and networking
- financial management and independence
- health and balance of life strategies
- career planning, and
- setting goals in all areas
Get Involved
Why be involved in AWC?
NETWORK: Meet women passionate about agriculture, make new business contacts, share your experiences, explore new ideas to build a stronger future and connect with future colleagues.
LEAD: Your involvement will demonstrate your commitment to recruiting, retaining and advancing women in agribusiness. Join our community of inspired women!
ELEVATE: Showcase your organization and brand as an innovative leader by being part of this initiative and show you recognize the important contribution women in all sectors of agriculture make to our industry.
INVEST: This conference has a winning track record for networking and learning.
How can you participate? There are many ways to be involved!
ATTEND: You can attend yourself, or with a group of women! We have seen many large groups of customers, clients, and members come from different companies and organizations, mothers and daughters attend together, and individuals from across Canada and the U.S. come. Some companies use this to enhance their human resources and marketing programs. It’s a gathering of women in agriculture not to be missed!
SHARE: This conference has grown remarkably by powerful word-of-mouth sharing. Do you know women who would love this information? We’d be grateful if you could share it with women in your network: staff, family members, clients, customers, producer groups or industry stakeholders. Some organizations use this program as an opportunity to build better relationships with their customers and stakeholders and hold contests, draws, receptions and events around the conference.
SPONSOR: Contact us early to book your sponsorship position! Exclusive sponsorship positions will be designated on a first come basis. Also consider nurturing a future leader by sponsoring a student from an ag college or university.
Want to find out more?
We look forward to meeting your needs – just call us at 403-686-8407.
Become a Sponsor
Take action today! Contact us early to book your sponsorship position!
Exclusive sponsorship positions will be designated on a first come basis. Also consider nurturing a future leader by sponsoring a student from an ag college or university.
Want to find out more?
We look forward to meeting your needs – just call us at 403-686-8407.
Student Program
Each year we invite students to apply for the AWC Student program where they can get their hotel accommodations and registration to AWC provided for them. Join us to help build our future leaders in agriculture by becoming a sponsor for young women passionate about agriculture.
This is how important this type of conference is to our leaders of tomorrow. Hear what some of our past attending AWC students have told us:
“As a student sponsor, it was very important for me to reach out to the two students that we sponsored to get to know them personally and understand why the Advancing Women in Ag conference was important to them. I am very glad that I took the time to reach out to both students by phone before the conference to get to know them more, and they had some great questions for me as they wanted to learn more about Zoetis and what my role within the company was. I was incredibly impressed with the level of engagement and professionalism demonstrated by both students at the conference. Since October, I have kept in touch with both of them, I’ve involved them in one of our customer meetings, and they both attended the first “CalfStart College” workshop that I led to share best practices with dairy calf health management. I would encourage other Ag business to get involved with sponsoring these young women, and to make that extra effort really get to know them as these personal connections create wonderful opportunities for both parties.” -Melodie Chan, Senior Manger Veterinary Services – Cattle/ Equine/Genetics, Zoetis, Kirkland, Quebec
“I would just like to tell you and your team how thankful I am to have been able to experience the Advancing Women In Agriculture Conference in Calgary a couple of weeks ago. As I am home going about my usual schoolwork and work duties, I am still reminded of how much passion and devotion goes into our powerful industry. I learned a lot about the boundaries we create for ourselves and how to dismantle them. I also learned a lot about new changes in businesses and succession planning (which is where we are at for both my family’s seed plant and my boyfriend’s farm!) This student opportunity was great, and I am excited for all of the future students who can participate. What a fun way to meet people and see others hard at work like ourselves. Thank you very much for organizing this event.” -Karis H., University of Manitoba
“Thank you for organizing such a fantastic conference! I am so happy that I was able to attend, it truly was inspiring and I have a whole notebook full of highlights to share with my peers! I’ve been encouraging all my girlfriends to mark AWC west 2017 on their calendars!” -Fiona J., Student, St-Francois Xavier, MB
“Very interesting, uplifting and motivating conference that is amazing for young women who often question their decision to enter this industry. This conference smashed all doubts.” -Melissa D., Olds, AB
“The greatest benefit of the conference? To be inspired – and I am fully! So many areas of agriculture to become involved in.” -Brianna C., Dapp, AB
“This is a great conference, but the sponsorship for students was what allowed me to attend. Amazing weekend! Good stories and speakers. I feel inspired to be a part of this industry.” -Briane C., Garafraxa, ON
“Unreal experience and confidence booster. So great to meet so many like-minded women in the industry. Once I’m done school, I feel like I’ll have so many more connections. Any chance to advance in networking and leadership skills is something that I am interested in.” -Rachael V., Portage la Prairie, MB
If you are a university or college student studying agriculture who wants to attend AWC, or an industry stakeholder who wants to sponsor a student, contact us at 403-686-8407 or email us for details at iris@irismeck.com.
Testimonials
Here is what we have heard!
In their own words – comments from our sponsors and delegates
“I’d like to let you know that even two weeks after the AWC, my colleagues and I are still talking about how great and impactful the conference was! We really appreciated the opportunity.”
~ Camille L, Calgary, Alberta“What an awesome conference this was. Worth every penny. The venue, the program, and all the speakers were top-notch.It shows that you have experience in putting a pack full program like this one. Ladies at the conference all say and repeated that you are the best. I am definitely looking forward to attending AWC in Niagara Falls.”
~ Louise P. Grand-Sault/Falls, New Brunswick“I can not express what an honour it is to be able to attend such an inspiring event. I want to express my utmost gratitude for creating such an experience for women in ag. Over the last week, I have been reminiscing about my time at the conference both last year and this year. Each year, I feel like I have a weight lifted off my shoulders after sharing my experiences with fellow students and women in ag. Prior to this conference I had so many struggles that I felt I was alone in (in regards to farming succession, selling my childhood farm/ loss of identity, and illness in our family.) Not only did I feel alone, but I was almost embarrassed to speak of them; thinking that gender roles and succession was largely a trait of my community. These are not topics that I discuss with people lightly, but it’s something about the AWC environment that speaking about these things much easier.” ~ Alannah J.
“It is our group that should be thanking you! My students and I had an incredible experience at the conference and made many new connections both personally and professionally. The students returned to campus energized and eager to share their experience with their peers and encourage the first years to attend AWC next year. WE appreciate the support, what a wonderful opportunity for our students.”
~ Darla S., Lakeland College.“A huge THANK YOU for giving me the wonderful opportunity to attend the Advancing Women Conference this past week. I had so much fun meeting some friendly faces, talking about agriculture, and learning about all the different job opportunities in the field. I was able to make so many wonderful connections and made new friends, and it is all thanks to you for organizing this event and sponsoring be to attend.”
~ Christine B, U of Guelph“I married a farmer 29 years ago, and until this conference I did not identify as a farmer. After this conference I will be embracing a new title.
~ Heather W., Foremost, Alberta“Wow! What a great experience! First time at this conference and I already cant wait for next year! To hear stories from women in ag and connect with other women! Fantastic conference!”
~ Sara M., County of Two Hills, Alberta“I feel empowered and uplifted amongst amazing women in Agricutlure. I am not alone and I am ready to take back some tips and tricks to be successful at my job.”
~ Jo T., Blackie, Alberta“You filled a room of over 300 Women In AG and I was truly impressed by the overall event. I met so many Dairy, Cattle, Wheat, Soy, Cheese Farmers and Producers and heard their incredible stories. The AWC conference was not only an incredible line up of expert speakers and workshops, but a highly effective networking opportunity where I was able to arrange meetings with women owned businesses in the AG business.”
~ Melanie C., Airdrie, Alberta“The AWC was an inspirational journey, 3 days of learning that was jamp packed full of knowledge transfer, leadership, communication and story telling. I encourage everyone to take the opportunity to foster life learning while making connections and have a little fun along the way.”
~ Kristen P, Roseland, Manitoba“You have made a profound difference in my life. Iris, you are a shining example of what a mentor is for this next generation of agriculture and women in the industry. You have given us a safe space where we can be vulnerable and talk about our challenges but also celebrate our successes in an environment that not only permits that but encourages it! I can’t thank you enough for being given the opportunity to speak and share my story at AWC West. While I may come off as a pretty confident (somewhat cocky) woman, there are still times where I doubt myself. Through AWC over the years I have learned so many valuable tools and tips to be authentic, own my place, embrace my power, and give back to the next generation. Thank you will never be enough gratitude but that is what I can give you. My wholehearted thanks from the tips of my boots to the crown of my cowboy hat, thank you for making a difference in my life and inspiring others. YOU ARE VISIONARY AND A LEADER IN THE INDUSTRY!”
~ Melody GS., Rocking Heart Ranch, Alberta“I wanted to extend my heartfelt gratitude for hosting the Advancing Women in Agriculture Conference. The event provided an invaluable platform for networking and learning, allowing me to forge numerous new connections and expand my professional horizons. Your dedication to fostering growth and empowerment within the agricultural community is truly commendable, and I am deeply appreciative of the opportunity to have been a part of it. You are a worthy recipient of the AFSC Notables Lifetime Achievement award! Thank you for your inspiring leadership and for creating such a meaningful experience.
~Carly Hilbert, U of BC“Thank you So much, for bringing great women together and creating such a wonderful, supportive, and collaborative community. That was truly a special few days and I am honoured to have been part of it.”
~ Dalia K., WildFolk. Calgary, Alberta“Thank you for allowing me the platform and opportunity to share my story. I knew I could be and inspiration, but never truly knew how far it could stretch! I’ve built my confidence so much from the experience of attending AWC, and have so many new tools in my belt. The platform you allowed me to have will not go to waste. I made so many friends, shared so many stories, and hope more speaking opportunities can venture my way. The workshops were amazing and so educational as well as allowed different opportunities of self-reflection and growth.”
~ Ashley P., Perepelkin Farms, Alberta“Another successful conference. I enjoyed every minute, I’ve got a book of notes to review and a list of contacts I’d love to keep in touch with including you. Thanks for all of the inspiration! I’m looking forward to bringing our daughters along next year! “
~Terra W, Kt and company EarthWeaver Farm, Alberta“I want to express my sincere gratitude for organizing such an impactful event. AWC provided a unique opportunity for me to connect with inspiring female role models and gain invaluable insights. Your energy and passion for maximizing participant value were truly admirable.”
~ Bingxin Hai, U of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta“As a first time attendee, I truly enjoyed listening to the speakers who covered a wide diversity of subjects. From starting their own business to succession planning as well as mental health to menopause, many topics were covered. Informative sessions, very well organized event and I am looking forward to see what’s in store for next year! If a you are a women farmer, I truly encourage you to attend this event!”
~ Alexandra Brochu, Girouxville, AB“Thank you for inspiring and re-energizing me! I thought all the speakers were top-notch, engaging, subject matter experts and offered great suggestions, direction and encouragement. The meals, snacks and beverages were fantastic! Loved the facility, my very comfy room, and the helpful hotel staff. Thank you for a fantastic experience.”
~ Michele“I have been off the farm since I first left for college and started to feel like I had lost my place within the ag community. Being here showed me there is always a place in ag and there is no “right” way to be a woman in ag. Thank you for giving all of us this change to feel loved and included.”
~ Jessie, Raymond, AB“Hearing all these stories from amazing women gave me the fire under my butt to take the next step in my career and life! Thank you.”
~ Lynne, Sherwood Park, AB“The feeling of this conference is unlike any other conference I’ve ever been to. The sense of community is strong and being surrounded by amazing women has been healing in ways I never knew I needed!”
~ Holly, Listowel, ONHere is what Tony Morris, P.Ag, Director with The Grand River Agricultural Society (GRAS) and sponsors of 5 AWC students had to say about AWC EAST 2017: “Developing and enhancing leadership skills is a key component of GRAS vision in providing sustainable community engagement. AWC provided students the opportunity for interaction and networking with leaders, which is important for their own individual growth and for the future of community development and leadership. AWC was excellent with very interesting topics. It was an amazing experience for personal growth. It helped me with a better understanding of the differences in viewpoints and critical analysis that are evident between the sexes, as well as improving my own personal ability to interact in such a setting.”
Merel Voth, who operates Hillside Dreams Goat Dairy with her husband Barrie, was inspired to start a goat association for commercial producers when she heard leadership stories by other women who attended our Advancing Women in Agriculture Conference in October 2017. We love providing the space for learning and inspiration like this! Click here to read her story.
“At Cargill, we are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that fosters growth and development for all our employees. The Advancing Women Conference reflects this and is a great way to accelerate the development of women at Cargill and in Canadian agriculture. Our employees return from the conference energized, motivated and excited about what they learned and the networking they were able to do. It is exciting to see women in agriculture coming together in such an engaging way and Cargill is proud to be a continuous sponsor of this event.”
~Jeff Vassart, President, Cargill Limited“The success of the Canadian agriculture industry is thanks to the bright women and men who have brought us to where we are today. The challenges of tomorrow will require even greater leadership, and G3 is very pleased to support the Advancing Women Conference to foster the development of women across the industry. We hope the experience is inspiring and empowering for all of the conference participants.”
~Karl Gerrand, CEO G3“That was the best conference I have ever participated in my life.”
~Kithma D., Truro, Nova Scotia“Your passion for this conference is making a real difference for women in Canadian agriculture and I would say for the ag industry overall.”
~Fran B., Winnipeg, Manitoba“During AWC I heard messages of ‘never say no out of fear’ and to ‘seize every opportunity’. At the conference end, I decided to apply for a new work position and I’m glad I did! Thank you for inspiring many to step outside of our comfort zones!”
~Marijke V., SE Ontario“It was amazing to get a chance to network with other women in the industry from around the country. Was an awesome conference. Loved the speakers, all very empowering.”
~Julie V., Norton, New Brunswick“Very interesting, uplifting and motivating conference that is amazing for young women who often question their decision to enter this industry. This conference smashed all doubts.”
~Melissa D., Olds, AB“Fantastic opportunity to be reminded of dynamic and important contributions women make in agriculture. Reinforces and reminds us of good strategies for strong leadership.”
~Carmen S., Weyburn, SK“I would also like to thank you for the wonderful opportunity. As an attendee at the past two Advancing Women in Agriculture Conferences, I benefited immensely from what I learned from all the speakers, and I found the opportunity to share some of my own thoughts with others to be surprisingly rewarding as well.
On behalf of women in agriculture, thank you for the hard work that you put into these events. It’s an incredibly necessary and beneficial event!”
~Jodi R., Lambton Shores, ON“I feel empowered to be a better advocate for my industry and to take our farm to the next level. This conference has been a game changer for me.”
~Merel V., Salmon Arm, British Columbia“As a student it has been an experience of a lifetime that I will remember for years to come. Thank you again for giving students like myself the opportunity to be inspired and achieve great success as leaders.”
~Sarah T., Calgary, Alberta“I was so thrilled to meet so many incredible women in strong positions in the industry. Networking with these women was by far the highlight of the conference for me.”
~Madelena P., Edmonton, Alberta“This conference also seems to be able to bring me up when I need it, and it lasts all year through.”
~Alana K., Priddis Greens, Alberta“Loved every minute I was here. I’m so truly thankful and grateful!”
~Wendy M., Gilbert Plains, Manitoba“I am leaving with a shift in mood and motivation.”
~Pamela W., Brandon, Manitoba“As always, networking and topics are spot on!”
~Michelle G., Rycroft, Alberta“This is my first time attending and it was amazing! All of the speakers have been incredible, very insightful and motivating.”
~Erin B., Coalhurst, Alberta“I’m going to eat better, talk about mental health with my kids and encourage women in my network.”
~Vanessa W., Airdrie, Alberta“There were a lot of really great topics and I am leaving with a greater knowledge base and a higher level of confidence and empowerment.”
~Jenn F., Saskatoon, Saskatchewan“I really enjoyed the opportunity to come to Alberta for the first time and to meet many other young women also passionate about contributing to the agriculture industry. Learning about their backgrounds, interests and journeys was really inspiring to me.”
~Morgan M., Bible Hill, Nova Scotia“This was fantastic both personally and professionally. From networking to all the self-care – outstanding!”
~Lynda C., Leduc, Alberta“Thank you for bringing amazing women together to support each other, learn from each other – and most importantly, to elevate each other.”
~Shannon P., Calgary, Alberta“Thank you for the recharge!”
~Marie-Lucie G., Provost, Alberta“I networked with women I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to meet otherwise, and I left this conference with a confidence and excitement I didn’t have previously.”
~Jaclyn E., Willingdon, Alberta