Female Farmer Spotlight: Laura Jackson’s Story of Family, Farming, and Reliable Communication

Laura Jackson is part of the new generation of women transforming American agriculture. As a cattle and crop farmer in rural Ohio, she manages both a growing herd and a 1,200-acre farm while raising two children. Her story proves that success in modern farming requires adaptability, hard work, and the right communication tools.

Women Driving Agricultural Innovation

Women now run 30% of U.S. farms, contributing over $12.9 billion annually, according to the USDA. Laura Jackson’s journey is a testament to this shift. Raised in a small town, she developed an interest in farming through local agricultural programs. After studying agriculture at Ohio State University, she returned home to help run the family farm, where they raise cattle, corn, and wheat.

The Daily Grind of a Farmer

“Farming is always a balance,” Jackson says, managing the constant demands of crop planting, harvest, and cattle care. “Our cattle need attention, our crops need care, and we need to be ready for anything the weather throws at us.” The farm operates year-round, from spring planting to winter livestock care, and Jackson’s days start early and end late.

The Power of Communication on the Farm

In rural Ohio, where cell service is spotty, Laura’s family relies on Retevis RT97S GMRS repeaters to extend communication coverage across their large property. These reliable devices ensure that they can stay connected, even in the most remote parts of their land.

• Retevis RT97S Repeater: This GMRS repeater ensures continuous communication across 1,200+ acres, eliminating dead zones that are common with cell phones.

• Retevis RB26 Two-Way Radios: These durable radios are used for everyday field communication, allowing family members and farmhands to stay in contact while working across the farm. Even the kids use RB26 radios to stay in touch with Laura and her husband when they’re out in the fields or on the tractor.

RT97S GMRS Repeater Kit with Six Pack RB26 GMRS Handheld Radio

“During planting season, the RT97S repeater really makes a difference,” Laura explains. “Whether we’re in the farthest corner of the property or deep in the barn, we can always communicate without losing connection.”

Introducing the RT97L – A New 25W GMRS Repeater with IP66 Waterproofing

Building on the success of the RT97 series, Retevis is launching the RT97L GMRS repeater, featuring 25W high power output for even greater range and coverage. Designed for extreme outdoor conditions, the RT97L also boasts an IP66 waterproof rating, making it ideal for adventurers facing unpredictable weather. Whether used for overlanding, search-and-rescue missions, or emergency preparedness, this new repeater is built to deliver reliable and robust communication in the most challenging environments.

RT97L 25W Waterproof GMRS Repeater

Empowering the Next Generation

For Laura, balancing farm work with family life is crucial. “My kids love riding the tractors with their dad or helping with the cattle. Using radios means they can stay connected to me even when they’re out in the field.” Jackson is passionate about encouraging young people, especially girls, to consider careers in agriculture. She mentors local students and has even started an internship program to help them learn the ropes of modern farming.

“Reliable communication empowers us to focus on what matters—care for the animals, ensure healthy crops, and teach the next generation how to thrive in this industry.”

GMRS Repeater for sale:

RT97S GMRS Repeater: https://www.retevis.com/rt97s-full-duplex-portable-gmrs-repeater-us

RT97L GMRS repeater: https://www.retevis.com/25w-rt97l-gmrs-long-range-waterproof-full-duplex-repeater-us

RT97S GMRS Repeater Kit with Six Pack RB26 GMRS Handheld Radio: https://www.retevis.com/rt97s-and-rb26-with-six-way-charger-us