b'found a supportive environment that celebrates women for their achievements and encourages them to succeed.Englert said ASTAs culture of mentorship, though informal, creates an environment where everyone feels supported and motivated to win, regardless of gender, race or ethnicity. She emphasized the importance of confidence and continuous learn-ing, especially for women who may experience imposter syn-drome in male-dominated spaces.The conversation around diversity, equity, and inclusion in the seed industry is broadening, with a focus on creating an environ- SEED TESTINGment where everyone has a seat at the table. "We\'re an industry founded on innovation and forward-think- We have a proud history of ing," Englert said. "It only makes sense that the people makingmore than 120 years ofdecisions reflect the global diversity of our industry." excellence in seed testing, Looking to the future, Englert envisions more women intraining, and customerleadership positions within seed companies and associations.service.As the largest public She said that a continued emphasis on promoting women andseed testing lab in the world, diversity in the industry will lead to even greater representationwe can meet any of your seed and impact. testing needs.Sparks added another dimension to this conversation, empha-sizing the importance of intentional efforts to increase diversityTRAININGand inclusion.For more than 100 years, the "Agriculture is not necessarily a progressive industry in termsIowa State University Seed of leading the change curve, but the past five years have beenLab and Seed Science Center the most progressive we\'ve seen," he said. have provided training for He highlighted the need for companies to be intentional inseed industry professionals their diversity and inclusion initiatives, from ensuring a diverseby hosting short courses and pool of candidates to examining compensation equity.workshops.Payton Englert Mentorship and support are crucial, not only from female mentors but also from male allies who play a significant role in fostering change, he said.As the industry becomes more globally diverse, Sparks said it will be even more important to respect and appreciate different cultures and challenges. He envisions a future where roles tradi- ONLINE GRADUATEtionally dominated by males, such as finance and R&D, will showPROGRAM IN SEEDmore women rising up in rank, and where the commercial side of the business becomes more inclusive. TECHNOLOGY ANDEnglert\'s story and insights, coupled with Sparks\' perspec- BUSINESStives, highlight the positive changes occurring in the seedGet your Master of Science in industry, where women are not only participating but leadingSeed Science and Technology and shaping the future of agriculture. As the industry continuesonline from anywhere in the to evolve, the contributions of women, supported by intentionalworld at the pace that works diversity and inclusion efforts, will undoubtedly play a crucial rolebest for your schedule. in its growth and success.After more discussion with his daughter about why she ques-tioned whether a woman could be a scientist, Sparks and his wife realized she had not seen much representation in her day-to-dayGET IN TOUCH WITH US TODAYworld of women being scientists.That brings in the importance of storytelling, Sparks said. TheRegister today for our summer and fallmore that you can tell a story and promote and highlight theseworkshops, or ask about testing your seeds amazing female scientists we have around the world, it helps shiftin our laboratory. No matter the need, were the needle a bit. Younger generations will start to see this can behappy to help! Email us today atan opportunity for me. I can be a plant breeder. I can be a scientistseedlab@iastate.eduor a researcher in an agricultural company.SWJUNE 2024SEEDWORLD.COM /37'