Antonela Quijada
Antonela Quijada is an experienced laboratory and project management professional currently serving as Lab Manager at Sandhills Renewable Energy, LLC in O’Neill, Nebraska. Originally from Mexico, she began her career in agronomy and laboratory sciences, holding key positions in government and private-sector labs, including ICAMEX and SEDAGRO. Over the course of her career, Antonela has gained extensive expertise in analyzing food, water, soil, and crop samples, managing laboratory operations, and implementing rigorous quality control protocols.
Antonela’s academic background reflects her dedication to agricultural sciences and project leadership. She earned her Agronomy Engineering degree in 2015 and subsequently completed a Master’s in Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources from the Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México. She is currently completing her PhD in Project Management at UNIVERSIDAD AMERICANA DE EUROPA (UNADE). Combining her scientific expertise with advanced project management skills, Antonela has successfully led complex initiatives in the agriculture and ethanol industries.
Passionate about leadership and professional growth, Antonela approaches her work with a solution-oriented mindset and a focus on excellence. Since joining the ethanol industry in 2023, she has contributed to plant projects that enhance operational efficiency and sustainability. Her professional philosophy centers on making meaningful, lasting contributions and becoming the leader she aspired to work under earlier in her career—ensuring that both her past and future selves can take pride in her achievements.
• Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México - M.Sc.
• Mexican Red Cross Paramedic
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a mindset of unwavering commitment. When I decide to pursue something, the possibility of giving up never even crosses my mind. I am tenacious and determined, and I approach every challenge with a focus on finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems. I believe that confidence is developed through action—every step forward not only brings me closer to my goals but also strengthens my belief in my abilities.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is: “A person who aims at nothing hits nothing.” It taught me the importance of setting ambitious goals. Even if you don’t achieve the exact target, aiming high ensures that you accomplish more than you would by aiming low. For example, if your goal is to build a 1,500-foot building, you might not reach that exact height—but you could still end up constructing a 1,000-foot building. Essentially, setting the highest possible standard pushes you to achieve more than you ever thought possible.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is simple: just start. You might not get it perfect at the beginning, and that’s okay—even imperfect action is better than doing nothing. Confidence is developed through experience, so every step you take not only moves you forward but also strengthens your belief in your own abilities.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, accountability, and purposeful leadership. I strive to become the kind of leader I would have admired years ago—the boss I wished I had. I want to make choices today that both my younger self and my future self can be proud of. I am committed to my goals and approach challenges with a solutions-focused mindset, seeking ways to overcome obstacles rather than dwelling on problems.
Locations
Sandhills Renewable Energy, LLC
O\'neill, NE 68763