Year of the International Woman Farmer Spotlight: Laura Troost with Saticoy Lemon Association

As the National Society of Accountants for Cooperatives recognizes 2026 as the Year of the International Woman Farmer, we’re proud to spotlight women making a meaningful impact across the agricultural and cooperative landscape. Laura Troost, CPA – National Director for NSAC and Chief Financial Officer of Saticoy Lemon Association – brings a thoughtful, service-driven perspective to her work. In this Q&A, Laura reflects on her path into agriculture, the responsibility of supporting grower-owners, and the evolving role of women in an industry where diverse perspectives are increasingly essential.

Can you share a bit about your role in agriculture and what a typical day looks like for you?

I am the Chief Financial Officer of Saticoy Lemon Association, a grower-owned cooperative that washes, stores, and packs lemons. My role involves accounting, finance, strategy, human resources, IT, and a bit of operations.

On any given day, I can be found reviewing financial performance, working alongside various internal teams, or supporting decisions that directly impact our growers (from capital investments to cash flow). I also work closely with our board to ensure the cooperative operates with financial discipline and long-term sustainability in mind.

I may start the day trying to figure out the best way to revise graphs, and end it in an extended meeting working to streamline a long-standing process across operations, accounting, and IT.

What I love about agriculture is that no two days are the same. It’s a dynamic environment where weather, markets, and operations are constantly shifting, and you have to stay both grounded and adaptable.

What first inspired you to pursue a career in farming or agriculture?

When Saticoy Lemon approached me about my current role, I was immediately drawn to the opportunity to work with a high-integrity board of directors at an organization on the cusp of meaningful modernization.

I didn’t originally set out to work in agriculture. I began my career in public accounting, seeking both professional challenge and the flexibility to raise my children in the way I chose. Joining Saticoy offered the opportunity to take on new challenges with people I respected, in a culture that allowed me to continue showing up for my family.

What has kept me here is how meaningful the work is. In a cooperative, it’s about much more than numbers and profit. We are providing a meaningful service to growers and their families. Over time, I developed a deep appreciation for how complex and essential this industry is, and for the responsibility we carry to make thoughtful, sound decisions on behalf of the people we serve.

What has been one of your proudest moments or achievements in your agricultural journey so far?

I’m most proud of helping strengthen the foundation of our organization through improved processes, increased transparency, and a stronger equity position.

In a cooperative, trust is everything. Knowing that our growers rely on us, and being part of building systems that support them more effectively, is incredibly meaningful to me.

What challenges have you faced as a woman in agriculture, and how have you navigated them?

Agriculture, especially on the operational side, remains a very male-dominated industry, as does accounting and finance. I am often the only woman in the room.

Over time, I’ve learned that consistency, preparation, and clear communication go a long way. When you show up prepared, speak clearly, and follow through on your commitments, respect naturally grows.

How do you see women shaping the future of agriculture, and what changes would you like to see in the industry?

Continued growth in representation at the decision-making level is inevitable. In any industry, better decisions come from diverse perspectives. As we navigate challenges around labor, technology, and long-term sustainability, the industry needs the best minds.

There is also an opportunity to broaden how people think about careers in agriculture. There are many paths into this industry, and it is the responsibility of industry leaders to make those visible and accessible.

What advice would you give to young women or girls who are considering a path in farming or agriculture?

Agriculture is a business filled with opportunity and uniquely tied to the health of humankind and our environment. It is a profoundly meaningful space to be part of.

There are opportunities across all aspects of the industry. Be curious, ask questions, and take the time to truly understand how things work and what stakeholders value.

Trust your perspective. The industry needs thoughtful, capable leaders, and there is absolutely a place for you here.