Women powering the future of dairy farming

“Working with dairy farmers is more than just a job – it’s the responsibility of feeding the world today while safeguarding it for tomorrow. I’m very confident about the future of dairy farming.”

^{- Pauline Vanel, Market Manager, Farm Services, France}

Women play a central role in global agriculture, particularly in livestock and dairy production. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), around two thirds of low-income livestock keepers worldwide are women. The International Dairy Federation estimates that approximately 80 million women worldwide are involved in dairy farming, with around 37 million women heading their own farms. In turn, their work supports the livelihoods of more than 600 million people.

Yet access to resources in many agricultural systems remains uneven. Female farmers often have less access to land, financing, training or modern technologies than their male counterparts. The FAO estimates that closing these gender gaps could add around one trillion US dollars to the global economy and reduce food insecurity for up to 45 million people worldwide.

The future of dairy farming is shaped not only on farms, but also by the women developing the technologies and services behind them. With that in mind, GEA asked several women from its dairy farming business to share what inspires them, what needs to change and how they see the industry developing. From automation and herd management to service and market support, their perspectives show how women are helping drive the industry forward.

What made you choose a profession in agriculture?

What makes your work meaningful for you?

How does your role contribute to the future of dairy farming?

In your opinion, what will modern dairy farming look like in 10 years?

What change would you most like to see for women in agriculture?