Potatoes New Zealand connects with various women in the industry as part of International Women’s Day to discover the amazing work they do in the sector.
Name: Catherine James
Company: Fruitfed Supplies
What do you do in your current role?
I conduct research field trials in vegetable crops as part of the Research and Development team at Fruitfed Supplies. My trials support the development of new crop protection products and their integration into commercial crop protection programs. I also evaluate existing products under real-world cropping conditions, helping our sales representatives provide advice to growers, that is backed up by local data.
What do you particularly enjoy about it?
I love the variety of people I get to engage with daily, all working towards the shared goal of producing healthy and nutritious crops. I also enjoy collaborating across all levels of the industry—from incredible local growers to large multinational suppliers working with Fruitfed Supplies.
How long have you been with your organisation?
I have been a Technical Advisor with Fruitfed for 4.5 years.
How do you find working in the potato industry/primary industries?
I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the potato industry, especially since potatoes are such a staple in my family home—part of almost every meal we share together. There is so much variety that no two days are the same with some incredible ‘office locations’ when working outdoors.
Please share any standout moments in your life?
A standout moment for me was my first experience working in horticulture as a seasonal worker for a local grower. Seeing firsthand the passion and pride growers had for their work and the produce they provided to the market inspired me to pursue a career in horticulture. Every person I have engaged with since has carried that same passion, pride, and willingness to support others entering the industry.
What or who inspires you?
The Pukekohe growers I interact with inspire me. They are hardworking and ingenious individuals who are always willing to support and lend a hand. Each new growing season presents different challenges, yet they consistently maintain a positive outlook and support one another through it all.
What do you wish you had known before you started in your profession?
There are so many different pathways to a successful career in the potato and primary industries. No matter your background, if you are hardworking, passionate, and willing to learn, you can build a rewarding career. There is no single “right” way to grow and develop—every experience adds value, and the industry offers endless opportunities to carve out a path that works for you.
What would you tell another woman interested in working in the potato industry/primary industries?
I would absolutely encourage any woman considering a career in the potato or primary industries to go for it! It is a rewarding field where no two days are the same, with endless opportunities to learn, grow, and make a real impact. The industry values practical skills, problem-solving, and innovation, and there’s a strong sense of community among those working in it.
International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. Significant activity is witnessed worldwide as groups come together to celebrate women’s achievements or rally for women’s equality. #AccelerateAction
Find out more at www.internationalwomensday.com