Northwest Farm Credit: Rural, Real Estate, Operating Loans; Farm Loans; Country Home Loans; Lot Loans; Equipment Financing; Young and Beginning Producers; Crop Insurance; Business Management Education; Property Appraisals
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Laura Wilder's roots run deep in Idaho agriculture. She is a fifth- generation farmer and rancher who has devoted her career to promoting the industry. As executive director of the Idaho Beef Council, Idaho FFA Foundation (for 10 years) and now as admin- istrator for the Idaho Barley Commission, Laura is passionate about telling the story of agriculture and developing capable leaders for the future. "There are so many opportunities in agriculture for young people who want rewarding work and careers that truly make a difference," she says. "In addition to production agriculture, there are needs in all areas of science and technology, as well as business, marketing and communications." Laura is especially proud of the gains made by the Idaho FFA Foundation to raise awareness for secondary education that helps young people pursue ag careers. Over the years she's seen many young women go on to college and eventually step into leadership roles. "Women are embracing their skills and interests in agriculture," she says. "I would encourage them to continually find ways to develop their leadership skills, to serve on industry boards and learn how to collaborate, to take on new responsibilities so they can become better leaders. So much of the world is run by people who show up, and if you don't show up, someone else will. All of us in the agriculture industry must work together better to tell our story more boldly to the public." Michelle Erickson Jones returned to her family's grain and forage operation in 2012 after working for UPS and Amazon.com managing transportation logistics. With two master's degrees in business management – operations management and mediation/dispute resolution – she is the first female president of the Montana Grain Growers Asso- ciation in 61 years and serves on the National Association of Wheat Growers board. "I love politics," Michelle says. "Not the political rhetoric we see on social media, in ads and in political stalemates in Washington, D.C., and around the globe, but the true inner workings of our government. Trade and trade policy are fascinating. The process is slow and oftentimes a more painful process than domestic policy, but the stakes for U.S. farmers and ranchers are incredibly high." Michelle is passionate about having the voice of agriculture heard. Through her strong social media presence and blog, BigSkyFarmher, she is reaching out to educate consumers in urban areas about the vital role ag plays in the U.S. and abroad. She encourages others, especially females, to do the same. "There is plenty of room for females who like public policy work to step into leadership roles and be heard on all levels," she says. "Even if you don't have time to volunteer for your state or national commodity organization you can still make a difference. Write your congressional members, call their offices, tag them in social media posts. Tell them your success stories and tell them about flaws in current policy. Simply be involved and be a strong voice for agriculture." "There is plenty of room for females who like public policy work to step into leadership roles and be heard on all levels." "So much of the world is run by people who show up, and if you don't show up, someone else will." Laura Wilder, Idaho Michelle Erickson Jones, Montana feature story 9 Northwest Farm Credit Services Women in Ag