The 2025 USPOULTRY Women’s Leadership Conference brought together industry leaders, innovators and visionaries for two days of insight, inspiration and forward-thinking discussions. From sessions on artificial intelligence (AI) and strategic decision-making to panels on effective communication and women leading with resilience, attendees explored how to navigate today’s dynamic workplace while fostering inclusion, productivity and personal growth. The event set the stage for actionable takeaways and meaningful connections that will shape leadership and innovation in the years ahead.

Jamilia Gordon, CEO and Founder of Lumachain, opened the conference with a powerful and deeply personal story of resilience. Growing up amid hardship in Somalia, she was displaced by the civil war and was left nearly homeless in Kenya. A chance act of kindness from a traveling backpacker brought her to Australia, where she learned English, pursued higher education and discovered her passion for software engineering. Throughout her journey, Gordon has held fast to the belief that “women must support each other.” She urged the audience to lean into their superpowers, cultivate resilience and positivity, and always strive to be useful - ultimately becoming the best version of themselves.

A panel discussing, “Bridging the Communication Gap,” included Alicia Helle, senior sales operations manager at Cooper Farms, as moderator and panelists Kendra Waldbusser, head of food safety and quality assurance at Pilgrims; Megan Hines, quality assurance manager at Wayne-Sanderson Farms; and Sarah Campbell, food safety and quality assurance manager at Lincoln Premium Poultry. The panelists explored how to balance respect and professionalism, while still leading with confidence and assertiveness. They emphasized the importance of fostering inclusion within teams and creating space for every voice to be heard. They agreed that the most critical communication skill is active listening - listening to understand, not just to respond.

Wayne-Sanderson Farms’ employees, Romika Wells, senior manager for learning and development, and Jennifer White, corporate human resources manager, moved the conversation towards AI and how it is transforming workplaces by moving employees away from repetitive tasks, toward strategic, high-impact work. Unlike traditional automation, which follows fixed rules and cannot adapt — such as a coffee maker, sprinkler system or washing machine — AI can learn and support decision-making, streamline project management, improve communication and personalize employee development.

Lisa Gilbert, CEO of No-Nonsense Training Solutions, opened the second day of the conference with energy and confidence, focusing on the role of women leading with resilience and fortitude in challenging times. She emphasized that these qualities are essential for effectiveness in today’s ever-changing environment and stressed the importance of confidence without arrogance, paired with strong self-awareness, to maintain productivity in the workplace.