CSS Farms, LLC

Laurie Widdowson

There have been times when I was the only woman in the room, and early in my career, I often felt pressure to prove I belonged. Over time, I learned to lean into preparation, authenticity, and relationship-building. Those experiences strengthened my voice and clarified my leadership style, and they reinforced for me how critical mentorship is for emerging professionals.

Work-life balance is another ongoing challenge. Agriculture does not run on a 9-to-5 schedule, and balancing travel, seasonal demands, and family commitments requires intentionality. I have learned to be realistic about bandwidth, surround myself with supportive people, and set boundaries that allow me to be fully present both at work and at home. It’s not always perfect, but it’s the lifestyle I love!  And one I try to model for younger women who are watching what leadership can look like.

Representation, Mentorship & Women’s Contributions

Access to mentorship has shaped my career, and it’s a core priority for me as I continue to grow in my role in the industry. Strong mentors, men and women, opened doors for me, encouraged me when I doubted myself, and helped me understand the broader picture of the industry. That’s why I am committed to creating opportunities for others through intentional mentorship, advocacy, and community involvement. Agriculture thrives when we invest in people, not just processes.

Women bring tremendous strengths to the agricultural table. In my experience, women often excel at building personal, trust-based networks, which is vital in an industry where relationships drive collaboration, problem-solving, and long-term success. As the industry has evolved, women have taken on broader and more strategic roles, often wearing multiple hats across operations, leadership, communication, and community engagement. What remains constant is the intentionality women bring: an ability to connect dots, foster collaboration, and strengthen culture within organizations.

Today’s agricultural landscape demands that companies think intentionally about culture, creating workplaces where women feel valued, supported, and empowered to lead. When that culture exists, the entire industry benefits.

Rewards & Motivation to Keep Going

What keeps me energized in this work is the chance to contribute to something bigger than myself. I’m inspired every day by growers who innovate, adapt, and commit themselves to producing high-quality potatoes despite challenges. Their resilience motivates me to keep advocating for research, technology, and leadership development that supports them.

Perhaps most importantly, I’m driven by the next generation. Whether it’s through mentorship, community involvement, or championing youth programs, I want to make sure agriculture remains strong, vibrant, and full of opportunity for those who will carry it forward. Investing in people is one of the most meaningful contributions we can make to our industry’s future.