At Wayne-Sanderson Farms in Tyler, Texas, women leaders are at the forefront, changing the story of the poultry industry in the United States. With decades of experience, determination, and mentorship, four exceptional women have become role models for leadership in agriculture.
Shoes For Crews has been helping keep Wayne-Sanderson Farms’ employees safe on the job since 2018. We were inspired by their spotlights for Women’s History Month that honored Ashley Van Natta, Shae King, Tierney Gregory, and Kimberly Maddox. We sat down with these women to discuss how they have risen through the ranks with resilience and heart, demonstrating that leadership skills thrive in inclusive and supportive workplaces.
Ashley Van Natta: Leadership Through Consistency
Ashley Van Natta, the company’s first female Complex Manager, began her career in the field and worked her way up.
“I started as a service technician and just kept showing up,” she says. “There were people who doubted me, but I had mentors who pushed me. I learned to never take no for an answer.”
Shae King: From the Line to Leadership
Shae King, the Operations Manager, grew up around family members who worked in the poultry industry and started as a line associate.
“I didn’t see myself in leadership at first,” she shares. “But, as I worked up the ranks, I realized how much more I had to contribute as a growing leader.”
Tierney Gregory: Leading with Purpose & Persistence
Tierney Gregory, Quality Assurance Manager, began her journey as a trainee and quickly made her mark.
“I learned that success isn’t owned; it’s rented—and rent is due every single day,” she says. “Be starving for growth, always stay coachable, and stand firm in your values.”
Tierney believes in mastering the fundamentals and creating space for others at the table. “Keep showing up, keep contributing, and your seat will come. And when it does, bring others with you.”
The Role of Shoes For Crews
These women don’t spend their days behind desks—they’re on the move, walking the production floor, engaging with teams, and solving problems in real time. That’s where Shoes For Crews comes in. Our slip-resistant, comfortable, and durable work shoes—like the DEWALT Albany Flex and the exclusive Shoes For Crews X New Balance Arishi v3 and Kaiha Road—support their physically demanding leadership roles.
“I walked 15 miles and didn’t feel any pain. That’s when I realized I had reevaluated what comfort means at work,” one leader shared.
This partnership is about more than footwear—it’s about standing behind women who lead with strength and purpose. Wayne-Sanderson Farms and Shoes For Crews are working together to build a safe workplace and a more inclusive future for women in agriculture.