Agenda

SUNDAY, JULY 28

Happy Hour Meet Up Hilton Lobby Bar

MONDAY, JULY 29

 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM 

Welcome

Lara Sowinski, CropLife Group Editor, Meister Media Worldwide 

Keynote Presentation

The Power of Precision: Gene Editing in Agriculture  

Join us for a keynote presentation by Wendy Srnic, Vice President of Biotechnology, as she explores the burgeoning field of gene editing in agriculture. Through a balanced approach of educational primer and real-world relevance, discover the importance and implications of gene editing technologies in modern farming. Additionally, gain valuable insights into Wendy’s personal journey within the agricultural technology sector. 

Wendy Srnic, Vice President, Biotechnology, Corteva 

 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM 

Break

11:30 AM – 12:00 PM 

Navigating Government Relations: A Primer for Women in Ag Tech

Join us for an insightful exploration into the fundamentals of government relations in the agricultural technology sector. Learn about the numerous steps and timelines involved in federal policymaking, including public comment periods, and discover how to effectively advocate for your cause, how to make your voice count, and why your voice is needed in the halls of government. 

Joyce Hunter, Distinguished Fellow, Institute for Critical Infrastructure Technology (ICIT), and former Deputy CIO, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) 

12:00 PM – 12:30 PM

Empowering Action: Case Studies in Getting Involved in Public and Private Policy Advocacy 

Hear from experienced professionals in the field of agriculture technology as they share their firsthand accounts and case studies on taking the next steps to influence change. Gain valuable insights and practical strategies for making an impact and leveraging your voice to shape policies that matter to you and your community. Join us for an engaging discussion on driving change and making a difference in the agricultural technology sector. 

 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM

Networking Lunch

 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM

“Tigress” Teams: Agile Problem-Solving in Women in Ag Tech 

Step into the role of an elite task force as we convene our Tigress Teams to tackle pressing issues for women in agriculture technology. These small, cross-functional groups will dive deep into specific topics such as a mentorship program for Women in Ag Tech ™ and career advancement. With the benefit of subject matter experts as facilitators, participants will gain the freedom to think creatively in this immersive and collaborative problem-solving experience aimed at addressing critical challenges facing women in ag tech. 

3:00 PM – 3:30 PM 

“Tigress” Teams Report Out

3:30 PM – 4:20 PM 

Feature Presentation
Charting a Sustainable Path: Conservation Case Studies and Opportunities 

Learn about proactive approaches to agricultural technology and conservation strategies, crucial for achieving sustainability goals, including The Nature Conservancy (TNC) collaborations with Iowa Soybean Association and the INREC for transitioning to regenerative farming practices.   

• Identify retailer and supplier opportunities for bridging existing gaps in farmer advisory services for BIPOC and women farmers. 
• Learn about TNC’s involvement in initiatives like 4R Plus and their efforts in federal and state policy. 
• Discover how innovative projects including the Diverse Corn Belt Project and Food Scapes build resilient rural communities and foster diverse cropping systems. 

Paige Frautschy, Iowa Agriculture Program Director, The Nature Conservancy  

4:20 PM – 4:30 PM 

Visionary Sponsors Reception Kick-Off

4:30 PM – 5:15 PM  

Women in Ag Tech Cocktail Reception

5:30 PM – 7:30 PM 

Tech Hub LIVE Welcome Party at Ricochet

Visionary Sponsors