Feature Focus
Mar 20, 2026

Giving to gain: Women shaping the future of poultry

From a farmer’s unexpected idea in 1923 to today’s global innovators, women continue to drive progress in the poultry industry.

March brings two moments that celebrate the impact of women: International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month. International Women’s Day carries the theme “Give to Gain,” highlighting the power of generosity and collaboration to advance women. When women are encouraged to grow, lead and share their ideas, the benefits ripple outward — strengthening teams, industries and communities, and helping everyone thrive.

Few stories illustrate this better than Cecile Long Steele, whose unexpected decision helped launch today’s broiler industry.

A simple decision that changed poultry forever

Cecile Long Steele, archive image from DelewareAgricultureMusuemCollection In 1923, Cecile Long Steele of Sussex County, Delaware, placed an order for 50 chicks to support her small egg business. Instead, a hatchery delivered 500 chicks by mistake.

Rather than sending them back, Steele decided to raise the birds and sell them for meat. The idea proved successful. Within two years, she was raising 10,000 meat-type chickens, showing chickens could be produced efficiently to feed more people.

Her decision helped spark the development of the modern broiler industry — today a global sector that provides one of the world’s most affordable, sustainable and accessible sources of animal protein.

Steele’s story reminds us that progress often begins with curiosity and the courage to try something new.

Archive image of Cecile Steele's chickens, houses and workers, National Archives

Building a career in a dynamic industry

A century later, women continue to shape the poultry industry through science, innovation and leadership.

Vanessa Kretzschmar-McCluskey, Ph.D., Aviagen Global Head of Technical Transfer

Vanessa Kretzschmar-McCluskey, Ph.D.

One example is Vanessa Kretzschmar-McCluskey, Ph.D., Global Head of Technical Transfer for Aviagen. Her journey began at Auburn University in Alabama, where studying poultry science sparked a lasting passion.

After several years in research and academia, Vanessa joined Aviagen in Albertville, Alabama, as a Research Trials Coordinator. She later moved into the Global Technical Transfer team, where she now leads the efforts to share practical knowledge with poultry producers around the world — a role that reflects what she values most about the industry.

“The poultry industry is one of the best places to build a career because the work truly matters,” she says. “Every day we’re part of feeding communities, advancing animal welfare and driving improvements in sustainable food production.” Vanessa encourages more women to explore opportunities in the poultry sector.

“To women considering joining the poultry industry, my message is simple: there is space for your ideas, your leadership and your perspective. Don’t underestimate the impact you can have. This industry needs talented women at every level, and it’s an exciting place to grow, lead and make a difference.”

Teamwork that moves the poultry industry forward

Women across Aviagen are also helping bring new ideas to the field.

Clara Goldman, Aviagen Global Director of Export, Logistics & Trade Compliance

Clara Goldman

Clara Goldman, recently appointed Global Director of Export, Logistics & Trade Compliance, has built a career spanning quality assurance, animal welfare and global trade compliance — experience that reflects the poultry sector’s range of opportunities.

“We are spoiled for choice when it comes to following your passion in poultry,” she says. “Whether you want to stay close to home or travel the world, work directly with birds or with data, there are many paths you can take. Whatever role you choose, you’re part of something bigger — feeding the world.” Clara believes the diversity in career paths makes the poultry sector an especially exciting field for women.

 

“The variety of opportunities and the flexibility the industry offers make it a great place for women looking for a fulfilling career in agriculture.”

That same spirit is also taking shape through practical solutions in the field.

Ana Reis, Quality Coordinator for Aviagen Brazil

Ana Reis

Logistics Coordinator Alba Meiga

Alba Meiga

Ana Reis, Quality Coordinator for Aviagen Brazil, recently helped introduce a real-time chick delivery tracking system for ground shipments across Brazil. More than a logistics upgrade, the system strengthens customer confidence and animal welfare by giving greater visibility during delivery.

The initiative was developed through collaboration between Ana and Logistics Coordinator Alba Meiga, combining quality and logistics expertise to create a solution based on customer needs.

Ana encourages women considering careers in agriculture to approach the poultry industry with confidence. For Alba, collaboration remains at the heart of progress.

“Be curious, persistent and confident. Poultry production is a sector full of opportunities for those who want to innovate, grow professionally and make a difference.” – Ana Reis

 

“Innovation rarely happens alone. It grows when people share ideas, support one another and stay open to new ways of doing things,” she says. “International Women’s Day is a reminder of how important it is to encourage and support women in our sector.” – Alba Meiga

Growing the future together

From Cecile Steele’s pioneering step in 1923 to the women advancing new ideas and leadership today, the poultry industry has always been shaped by people willing to share knowledge and experience.

The spirit of “Give to Gain” reminds us that real change rarely happens alone. By supporting one another and encouraging new voices, the poultry sector can continue to grow stronger — feeding communities while creating opportunities for the next generation.

Read how Aviagen India Celebrated Strength, Grace, and Leadership for International Women’s Day.

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