AS A highly dedicated wife, mother, and beloved co-worker, Katie Sherman is a woman who deserves to be recognized. When Sherman began working for one of the country’s top 25 pork producers, Tosh Farms, it was very much a “man’s world.” Hired as the first female manager 21 years ago, Sherman recalls, “About 10% of our 40-person team was female, with only me in production. But now, women make up about 25% of our 500-plus employees. Over the years, Tosh Farms has evolved, but our core values: energy, knowledge; transparency, commitment, and community focus, [which] promote an environment full of opportunities, have not changed.”
“I manage a farm in Huntland, oversee some of our Kentucky farms, and help with our leadership program,” said Sherman. “I enjoy raising pigs. They play an important role in our lives. But my favorite part of the job is helping others realize and develop their talents. Sometimes, it’s very physical when I’m working in the barns. Basically, I do my best to help meet the needs of our team in whatever capacity I [can]. It’s never boring!”
“Being a mom is rewarding but hard work,” said Sherman. As the regional sow production manager, she has excelled in this demanding career because of the village of women who help along the way. “My life is filled with amazing family and friends, but there are some extraordinary women that really stand out. My mom, Patricia Rieben, steps up daily. She takes our girls to and from school every day and stays over when I’m out of town for a night or two each week. Along with her, our aunts, Peggy Gray, Michelle Sutton, and Sandy Lee, and my mother-in-law, Becky Sherman, have helped over the years with school field trips; carpooling; school projects; orthodontist appointments; meals; overnights; and fun, memory-making activities when I am out of pocket. It’s hard being away from my kiddos, but I never have to worry because they are always with someone who loves and cares for them. It’s easy to get bogged down, but these ladies offer sound advice from different perspectives, hugs, and prayers that reenergize me when I’m waning.”
Sherman also has the support of her devoted husband of 20 years.
“Clayton supports our three children, as well as me and my career. That said, he works the third shift for CSX and has a herd of 150 brood cows that require daily care.”
“There has been a lot of growth during my lifetime in Franklin County, but I love that we still have a small-town feel with agricultural roots and conservative values. In the last few decades, I’ve seen a major increase in activities, such as Farm City Day, the Farmer’s Market, and festivals geared toward family and supporting local businesses. I’ve lived in a few other places, but there is nowhere better! I am thankful that we are blessed to raise our children in such a wonderful community, surrounded by family and friends.” GN