Education, guidance and networking take center stage for women interested in horticulture during a kick-off event to launch the new Women's Horticulture Association. The event takes place Oct. 8 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Fox Valley Technical College's Agriculture Center in Appleton, Wis.
The new non-profit organization is designed to extend the scope of horticulturists to meet growing industry trends, while providing an educational network for women in a non-traditional field. WHA started from the vision of Fox Valley Technical College Horticulture Instructor Roxanne Rusch and local garden center employee Cathy Brazee, who both completed Fox Valley Technical College's E-Seed entrepreneur training series offered through The Venture Center.
Rusch, the first-ever WHA president, believes the new association will help ignite a movement in Wisconsin for females with green thumb aspirations.
"The Women's Horticulture Association provides an effective network to help bridge women to careers at nurseries and greenhouses, or in landscaping and lawn care," noted Rusch.
In the past two decades the horticulture industry has witnessed tremendous growth. Today's landscaping market is viewed by the business sector as a necessity, rather than a compliance step to zoning policies. The increased emphasis on green technology has also fueled the industry, and advances in technology make the profession alluring to diverse demographics.
"The horticulture business is competitive, and lean operations are a must," added Rusch. "WHA can contribute to the economic development of this industry by providing the training and support for women to build successful careers. This empowerment will aid women in meeting the unique demands of consumers looking to us for beautification, conservation and setting enhancements."
Fox Valley Technical College is helping WHA during its start-up phase by providing space and communications resources. The kick-off event at the college is free and refreshments will be served. Registration begins at 5:30, followed by an overview of WHA and a presentation, "Empowering Women," by Amy Pietsch, director of FVTC's Venture Center.