Women in Ag Tech Profile: One-on-One With Corteva’s Wendy Srnic
November 13, 2024 
Editor’s note: Women in Ag Tech (WiAT) is a newly formed and crucial group that aims to provide women in agriculture technology with a platform to connect, engage, and build a community. As part of our efforts to promote the initiative, we would like to highlight the successes and experiences of women who have achieved so much in their field. In this profile, CropLife Media Group Editor Lara Sowinksi interviews Wendy Srnic, Vice President, Biotechnology, Corteva Agriscience, and keynote speaker for the WiAT meeting that took place at Tech Hub LIVE this past summer.
CropLife: Who are you and what do you do in the ag tech industry?
Wendy Srnic: I lead the Biotechnology organization for Corteva Agriscience, which is responsible for the science, capability, competency, and infrastructure strategies to develop the biotech and new breeding technology (NBT) pipeline. My team manages all biotech greenhouse and controlled environment capabilities, as well as all trait supporting lab functions.
CL: How did you achieve the success that you have in the industry?
Wendy Srnic of Corteva Agriscience addresses the audience at the Women in Ag Tech meeting at Tech Hub LIVE in July 2024.
WS: Curiosity has always been a big driver for me. I have always been compelled by the science of how plants work, and that has evolved to learning how the business of plants works as well. I firmly believe that my curiosity and drive to never stop learning has gotten me to where I am today. That and always surrounding myself with exceptionally smart people that will push me out of my comfort zone.
CL: Could you share a pivotal moment in your career that helped you get to where you are today?
WS: Going through the merger of Dow and DuPont, and the subsequent spin off that led to what we now know as Corteva, was a massive time of learning and growth in my career. The opportunities to work with different mindsets and work cultures really impacted my personal growth because it allowed me to see the world from multiple viewpoints. It also led to several development opportunities that got me where I am today, helping lead a truly unique global research and development organization with an integrated approach to seed and crop protection.
CL: What advice would you give to other women who are trying to succeed in this field?
WS: You are never going to feel ready, but I promise you are ready! Raise your hand, take the opportunity. Don’t say no to new opportunities just because they make you a little uncomfortable.
CL: Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?
WS: The challenges facing the agriculture industry (climate change, population growth, etc.) can only be solved through a collective, technological approach. Never stop learning and opening your minds to what new technologies can do for our industry.
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