The Women Of Nutrien Ag Solutions

Nutrien Ag Solutions is backed by a strong team of women who are all as passionate about agriculture as the next. From the agronomists assisting the region’s farmers in the field to the administration officers providing support to the business, each play an integral role in one of the Burdekin’s key ag businesses, helping to grow this fundamental industry and paving the way for the future of women in ag.

Fee For Service Team Leader Eilis Walker leads a team of agronomists to undertake crop checking and follow up recommendations to target key pests and diseases in horticultural crops. She’s always had a passion for agriculture and rural communities and loves working with the diversity of crops, farms, and practices, providing a challenge every time she conducts a crop inspection.  

Eilis’ passion is felt throughout her team, consisting of Shantelle Arratta, Liz Stockton and Jess Murray who all grew up on farms surrounded by agriculture and Agronomists.

“I found them exciting and inspiring,” Shantelle said. “With a love for science and wanting a career where I could help people, agronomy was the right fit. Rural people have a different outlook on life and understand its challenges. The resilience and kindness of these people encourage me always to try my best.”

“My career started out on farms as a labourer and these were some of the most memorable times thus far,” added Liz. “The friendships I made and the satisfaction of being involved in all aspects of growing a crop the entire way through. Nowadays, working as an agronomist is more rewarding and I’ve seen more growth for myself and my career in this line of work.”

“I was raised in the industry and developed my passion for agriculture at a very young age,” said Jess. “Agriculture has always been a very supportive community and has helped shape my career pathway. Women have always been a part of the industry, but we are now getting the recognition for it.”

Trainee Agronomist Chloe Profke chose to complete work experience with Nutrien Ag Solutions while in high school and is now starting her career with the business, proving the undeniable influence of passionate and positive role models in the agriculture industry. While developing in her role, Chloe hopes to show other young women how satisfying and welcoming the agriculture industry is.

“There are lots of opportunities in agriculture,” Chloe said. “If you don’t like the part of agriculture you are in, there is lots of other paths to go down! It is the most rewarding job.”

Fertiliser Logistics Coordinator Molly Casey started in the business as Support Sales Merchandise before moving into the fertiliser department two and a half years later and loves dealing with great customers on a daily basis. Her advice to women considering or starting a career in agriculture is to “go for it!”

“There is a place for everyone within the agricultural community,” she said.

Administration Officer Kaylene Ley is an example of the variety of roles available to those entering the agriculture industry, performing all administrative duties for the business.

“Even though I am not out in the field, I still get to interact with the farmers who come into the branch or phone regarding an issue that I can help with,” Kaylene said. “I have made many friendships over the years and as agriculture is a majority of the Burdekin district, the industry will keep going strong.”

The team reflects on Rural Women’s Day as an opportunity to highlight the women who work across the vast variety of roles in agriculture and inspire the next generation.

“It’s good to be recognised as women contribute significantly to this industry, as well as our families and local communities,” said Merchandise Manager Kerry Davison, who’s main role is looking after orders and procurement for the branch, dealing with both suppliers and customer enquiries.  

“It establishes that not every farmer is a male and that behind farmers are often a support network of women,” added Shantelle. “Within agriculture is a wonderful, diverse mix of people, providing women a fulfilling and rewarding career.”

“There will always be challenges for women in agriculture,” said Liz. “Networking with other woman in the industry can help with overcoming these initial challenges. If you are able to build resilience and not let it impact you or your work, you will have a full career.”

The diversity of the agriculture industry is key to its future and the women of Nutrien Ag Solutions stand together as proof of what a strong and dedicated team can achieve. As the industry changes and evolves, they continue to work as pioneers ensuring there are endless opportunities for those considering a career in ag.

“I think that we need to reshape the way that agriculture is viewed, and I feel that women have the aptitude to engage in the industry and make a career out of it,” concluded Eilis. “All efforts that have been made and are being made to engage the next generation with agriculture should be celebrated regardless of if they are targeting a male or female audience.”

‍