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by Dawn Sterling
The Farm Progress Show in Decatur marked its 20th year with a special focus on women in agriculture. The "Women in the Field" event highlighted the contributions of women in this traditionally male-dominated industry. Jody Secondino-Crandell, who runs P & S Secondino FLLP in Terre Haute, Ind., and Paris, Ill., expressed that the recognition is "long overdue." She said, "We're finally getting women to the forefront." Secondino-Crandell emphasized the importance of each generation's season, stating, "My father's season, and now my season, and then I hope my children's season."
Kathy Schildler, owner of Shindler, Wilson Farms in Sydney, Ill., shared her experiences working with PepsiCo, which sponsored the event. "It's a big company that has given us so many opportunities that a farmer would never have," she said. Schildler noted the challenges women face in proving themselves in a "man's field," but added, "Once you gain that respect, like I have, then they are behind you 100%."
Both women highlighted the growing opportunities for women in agriculture, from seed sales to fertilizer application. Secondino-Crandell remarked, "The magnitude that women do behind the scenes that have never been recognized, and it's finally coming to fruition." Schildler concluded, "Women have so much opportunity these days, and we need to take it."
2025 Sinclair, Inc.

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