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The Beginning of Something Bigger
National Women in Ag Week celebrates not just the women who have built this industry, but the young women who are shaping its future right now. The students featured here are still at Black Hawk College East Campus, still learning, still figuring out their path—and that’s exactly what makes their stories powerful. Each of them entered agriculture from a different starting point: a Chicago barn, a multigenerational cattle farm, a dairy operation, a show ring and a love of animals. They’re not finished growing, and they don’t pretend to be. Instead, they show that passion, curiosity and courage in the early chapters can lead to futures bigger than they ever imagined.
Alessandra Rivera
- Major/Program: Equine Science and Horse Science Technology.
- Intended Career: Equine Marketing.
How she first got involved in agriculture.
“I first got involved in agriculture by volunteering at a local barn. Coming from Chicago, that world was unfamiliar to me; I had zero horse experience. But for six years, I volunteered my time giving pony rides, helping with trail rides and doing barn chores in exchange for saddle time. Not long after, I started taking basic lessons at a nearby barn, and my trainer mentioned Black Hawk College. It had always been in the back of my mind, but once I toured, I just knew I had to come. Horses had never been part of my family’s background; my parents had little to no experience in the industry, so this path was unexpected for us. Now, both my younger sister and I are heavily involved and continuing to chase our goals in the industry in our own ways.”
What she’s passionate about in agriculture right now.
“Right now, I am especially passionate about horse judging and the equine media side of the industry. After finishing my season on the judging team, I came back and am now an assistant coach, which has been incredibly rewarding. Judging pushed me to become a better horseman, communicator and mentor. I had no judging experience before joining the team and went on to win an AQHA world title, which made me even more passionate about it.”
A moment or experience that shaped her.
“Winning Nationals on the western riding team and the World Show with the horse judging team. I had little experience in showing and no judging experience, so these wins were extra special. They motivated me to get more involved in the industry and help others with little experience get started.”
What would your younger self think of you now?
“She would be relieved that she found her place in the horse industry.”
What she hopes younger girls see in her story.
“I hope younger girls see that there is more than one way to get involved in agriculture—and that it’s never too late to start. I grew up in Chicago with very little horse experience, but I still found my place in the industry. If I can do it, they absolutely can too.”
Toby Behrends
- Major/Program: Agriculture Transfer.
- Intended Career: Beef Embryology.
How she first got involved in agriculture.
“I have been in the agriculture industry my whole life. Rooted in generations of cattle producers, I have continued the family tradition. I entered the show ring at six years old and have since grown my own operation, raising and selling show cattle.”
What she’s passionate about in agriculture right now.
“I am passionate about leading future generations in agriculture. Through FFA, 4-H and leadership roles in junior associations, I’ve developed a strong commitment to mentorship and advocacy.”
A moment or experience that shaped her.
“Helping a young exhibitor overcome her fear of cattle and eventually win her division showed me the impact mentorship can have. That moment continues to drive me.”
What would your younger self think of you now?
“She would be proud that I am inspiring others just like her.”
What she hopes younger girls see in her story.
“I hope they see dedication and resilience. Ask questions, stay curious and don’t give up—growth comes from persistence.”
Grace Hingtgen
- Major/Program: Agriculture Transfer.
- Intended Career: Agriculture Teacher.
How she first got involved in agriculture.
“I grew up on my family’s dairy farm, learning responsibility and hard work while caring for livestock.”
What she’s passionate about in agriculture right now.
“I am passionate about leadership and education. My experience on the horse judging team helped me grow in confidence and communication.”
A moment or experience that shaped her.
“Participation in 4-H and FFA helped me step outside my comfort zone and grow both personally and professionally.”
What would your younger self think of you now?
“She would be proud that she stepped out of her comfort zone.”
What she hopes younger girls see in her story.
“Take risks and try new things—you never know where they might lead.”
Ella Thacker
- Major/Program: Agriculture Production and Agribusiness Management.
- Intended Career: Farmer.
How she first got involved in agriculture.
“I grew up on a farm and have been involved in agriculture my entire life, eventually building my own cattle brand alongside my family operation.”
What she’s passionate about in agriculture right now.
“Livestock production and cattle management.”
A moment or experience that shaped her.
“Sharing agriculture with others—especially younger students—has reinforced my passion for the industry.”
What would your younger self think of you now?
“She would be proud of the path I’ve built.”
What she hopes younger girls see in her story.
“Your path may change, and that’s okay—stay passionate and open to opportunities.”
Emma Wesselmann
- Major/Program: Veterinary Technology.
- Intended Career: Veterinary Technician.
How she first got involved in agriculture.
“Helping friends care for livestock growing up sparked my interest in working with animals.”
What she’s passionate about in agriculture right now.
“Animal care and advocacy.”
A moment or experience that shaped her.
“Fostering dogs during COVID-19 helped me realize my career path.”
What would your younger self think of you now?
“She would be proud of my growth and focus.”
What she hopes younger girls see in her story.
“You are more capable than you think—start small, learn and grow.”
Their stories are only the beginning. What’s yours?
These women prove that you don’t need decades of experience to make an impact—you just need the willingness to start, to learn and to keep moving forward. Their stories aren’t final chapters; they’re beginnings filled with possibility. As we honor National Women in Ag Week, may their journeys remind every young woman that agriculture needs new voices, new ideas and new leaders. The future of this industry is still unfolding—and women like these are shaping it.
