#United States #Louisville #green industry #Equip Expo #Womens Leadership

Equip Expo: Empowering Women in the Green Industry

The Equip Exposition, a premier international trade show dedicated to landscaping, outdoor living, and equipment, is set to host its third annual Women's Leadership Reception this October 23, 2025. This initiative aims to connect and empower female leaders within the green industry, providing them with valuable networking opportunities and a platform to share experiences.

Expanding Connections for Women

With nearly 30,000 attendees and exhibitors at the Equip Exposition, the inclusion of a specific event for women leaders highlights their essential role in this traditionally male-dominated field. Kris Kiser, the President and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), expressed pride in facilitating opportunities that foster connections among women in the industry. This year’s reception is sponsored by Belgard, Hunter Industries, and SiteOne, showcasing the growing recognition of women's contributions in the sector.

The Women's Leadership Reception will take place before the main event, following a crucial panel discussion titled "Power Players: Women Shaping the Future of the Industry." The panel features prominent figures such as Sara Hey, President of Bob Clements International; Shelia Matthews, Chief People Officer at Wilson360; and Bre Schoultz, known for her work as a content creator. This discussion aims to inspire attendees by sharing personal insights and challenges faced within the landscaping and power equipment industries.

Shared Experiences and Long-term Relationships

Attendees of the reception are encouraged to engage and learn from one another, regardless of their roles—whether they are exhibitors, landscapers, contractors, or distributors. Each woman brings a unique perspective shaped by her experiences, and the event serves as a platform for fostering long-lasting friendships and professional connections. Christine Maegly from Advanced Contracting and Remodeling emphasized the value of recognition in a male-dominated landscape, stating that connections formed within such spaces can be transformative for women's careers.

Anjela Vandermark, owner of Concrete Heartbeat LLC, spoke about the significance of this gathering last year, expressing how networking with peers who understand similar challenges is crucial to her success as a business owner. For Bekah Ware of Kato Compact Excavators, the reception presents an opportunity to deepen existing relationships and meet women who share common career paths.

These sentiments echo within the industry, as Katlyn Rinaldi, CEO of L.G. Mowing, highlighted the importance of increased female representation. She noted that seeing other women navigate challenges not only aids personal growth but also normalizes female leadership for future generations considering careers in landscaping.

Registration and Participation

The Equip Exposition invites all women interested in the green industry to participate in this year's Women’s Leadership Reception. Registration for the trade show is available at an early bird price of $30 until September 4, 2025, after which ticket prices will increase. This provides an excellent opportunity for women in the industry to not only network but also to benefit from the vast knowledge and resources available at the exposition.

Moving forward, the Equip Exposition aims to create a more inclusive environment where women are recognized for their contributions, thus paving the way for the next generation of innovators and leaders in the green industry. For more details, visit Equip Exposition.