Kaylene Ballesteros

Kaylene Ballesteros is a dedicated advocate for farmers and ranchers, advancing agriculture through a combination of corporate expertise and hands-on industry experience. Growing up on a small cow-calf and livestock operation in Williamsburg, Iowa, she developed an early appreciation for the challenges and rewards of agriculture. Guided by her parents—her father, a knowledgeable livestock owner and entrepreneur, and her mother, a corporate marketing professional and entrepreneur—Kaylene cultivated a strong foundation in both agriculture and marketing, instilling in her a belief in perseverance, self-confidence, and lifelong learning. For over 15 years, Kaylene has contributed to John Deere’s mission of delivering innovative agricultural solutions that meet real world problems. As Go-To-Market Manager for Hay & Forage Products, she partners with product and field teams to ensure solutions are launched effectively, to both dealers and customers. Her professional focus spans product marketing, dealer training, product development, and technology integration, all informed by her lived experience in farming and ranching. Through her work, Kaylene takes pride in breaking the barrier that success in agriculture requires choosing between a corporate career and farming or ranching - and is passionate in showing that both are possible. In fact, the lived experience makes industry leadership stronger, more grounded, and more credible. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kaylene is deeply committed to mentorship and community engagement, sharing her knowledge and experiences with the next generation of industry leaders. She has participated in the Young Cattlemen’s Conference through the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, has spoken at major industry and legislative events, and was a Director for the American Quarter Horse Youth Association - all focused on representing agriculture and the next generation. A mother of three, Kaylene also seeks to inspire her children to create a future that excites and motivates them, even if it requires them to "handle the hard".