The COVID-19 pandemic was egregiously hard on career-minded women. The U.S. Census showed that 3.5 million mothers with school-age children stopped working between March and April of 2020. Nearly half were still not actively working by the following year. Compared to January 2020 figures, 1.6 million fewer women were back to work in 2021.

So, getting back to work is a burden faced by many women across the board — one that may require searching for a position in an entirely new industry or earning some kind of professional certification to meet minimum job qualifications. The first step is often the hardest one to take. Whether it’s approaching someone with a question, asking for clarification, or really just trying anything new, most people hesitate at first. Holding back for even a moment can last for a few seconds or drag out for a few years.

For women with a green thumb, this feeling of uncertainty is easily surmountable. The Women in Horticulture gathering at the Farwest Show lacks the intimidating atmosphere that our insecurities have convinced us must be real. Instead, this gathering is an hour-long green industry networking event that feels more like a get-together with the neighbors you never had a chance to meet. It’s common to see a first-year horticulture student chatting face-to-face with a seasoned wholesale nursery owner. That’s the point of the event: women supporting women.

The volunteer group was founded in 2016 and provides free or low-cost networking opportunities for those who identify as women in horticulture and related industries. To help pay for the costs to host the Women in Horticulture gathering at this year’s show, a t-shirt fundraiser is underway. The group also publishes interesting interviews and book reviews to ignite passionate discussion and engagement for members.

All registered guests are welcome to join in the free event at the Farwest Show — the biggest green industry trade show in the West. If you know of a woman transitioning back into the workplace and networking for employment opportunities in horticulture, invite them to check out the group’s website and attend the networking event.

The pandemic has taught us many things, and the disruption to millions of women’s professional ambitions is proof that women need the support of one another.