Nebraska

The AgCeptional Women's Conference took place on November 21 at the Lifelong Learning Center in Norfolk, Nebraska. The conference is always an inspiring day dedicated to celebrating the strength, resilience, and leadership of women in agriculture. From powerful speakers to meaningful conversations, it creates a space where women can connect, learn, and lift one another up.

Having an AgrAbility booth at the conference added another layer of connection. Emily Jacobson, program manager for Nebraska AgrAbility shared that at the conference attendees stopped by the AgrAbility booth and they sparked deep, honest reflection about their daily lives on the farm and ranch. They began thinking through which tasks are physically hardest for them-balancing work, family, and ranch responsibilities, sorting cattle, or simply having the strength for certain chores.

They also reflected on which tools or equipment make their work safer and more efficient, from side-by-sides and skid loaders to zero-turn mowers and electronic cattle chutes. See the questions and responses here: NEeNoteDec2025_QuestionsToWomenInAgriculture.

Many women opened up about the unique challenges they face in agriculture today: stigma, lack of recognition, balancing multiple roles, being underestimated, navigating loss, or rebuilding independence after major life changes.

When asked how they take care of themselves during the busiest seasons, their responses-rest, prayer, hobbies, asking for help, taking intentional breaks-led to meaningful conversations about health, safety, and well-being on the farm.

These questions didn't just gather feedback, they created moments of connection, vulnerability, and empowerment. They helped attendees recognize the importance of caring for their bodies, advocating for themselves, and exploring tools or resources that could make their work both easier and safer. For AgrAbility, the booth became a place where women felt seen, heard, and supported-exactly what this conference aims to provide.

Submitted by Soni Cochran

Other News

Emily Jacobson partnered with Boone and Nance County Extension educator Sonya Glup to provide a full day of farm and ranch safety education to roughly 25 homeschooled youth. Her main presentation focused on ATV/UTV safety and teaching students about the machines themselves, the potential dangers, and how to choose equipment that fits their bodies correctly.

Each topic included a connection to a potential 4-H project. For ATV/UTV safety, Emily introduced the idea of creating an emergency kit for four-wheelers and side-by-sides. The students loved exploring the different items included in Emily's personal emergency kit, and many were excited about building kits for their family operations. NEeNoteDec2025_FirstAidATV.UTV

While Emily wishes there had been more time to demonstrate how some of the items are used, the session was still a valuable hands-on learning experience for everyone involved.