Meet the Mentors - Dianna Emperingham
As we continue our series of meeting the mentors, this week we get to meet WIA mentor Dianna Emperingham!
What is the BEST mistake you have ever made in your career?
Oh, there are so many! I’ve come to realize that every mistake has been a stepping stone—there hasn’t been a single day in my career where I didn’t learn something new. But if I had to choose one, it would be the “mistake” of saying yes to a role I didn’t feel fully prepared for.
At the time, I thought I was in over my head. I questioned whether I had the right experience, the right skills, or even the right to be at the table. But that leap—driven more by curiosity than confidence—turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made. It pushed me to grow faster than I thought possible, and it introduced me to people who would go on to have a tremendous impact on my career and personal development.
Looking back, it wasn’t really a mistake—it was a misstep that led me exactly where I needed to be. I feel incredibly lucky for the “accidents” that brought the right people and lessons into my path.
2. What have been your biggest “ah-ha” or learning moments throughout your career?
For years, I thought my job was to manage performance—set goals, track metrics, and correct course when things went off track. I was good at it. But something always felt… incomplete.
Then one day, I had a conversation with an employee who was struggling. Instead of focusing on their performance gaps, I asked a different question: “What kind of work makes you feel most alive?” That conversation changed everything.
We discovered they were in the wrong role—not because they lacked talent, but because their strengths and passions were misaligned. We worked together to find a better fit within the organization. A few months later, they were thriving—and so was their team.
That was my ah-ha moment: I realized my greatest impact wasn’t in managing performance—it was in helping people find where they truly belong.
Since then, I’ve shifted my approach. I still care about results, but I lead with curiosity, empathy, and a belief that everyone has a place where they can shine. That mindset has transformed not just my career, but the culture around me.
3. What external organizations have you been involved with that helped build success for you?
Being involved with external organizations has been a key part of my professional growth. These experiences have expanded my network, deepened my industry knowledge, and allowed me to contribute to causes I care about. A few examples are:
CropLife Canada – As a member of this organization, I had the opportunity to engage with leaders across the agricultural sector, stay informed on regulatory and sustainability issues, and contribute to conversations shaping the future of Canadian agriculture.
Agricultural Warehousing Standards Association (AWSA) – My involvement with AWSA helped me stay at the forefront of safety and compliance standards in agri-warehousing. It’s also been a platform for collaboration and continuous improvement across the industry.
I’ve always made it a priority to stay active in my community. Whether it’s supporting local fundraisers, participating in community clean-up events, or volunteering with local initiatives, I believe in giving back to the place I call home. These efforts not only strengthen the community—they also bring a sense of balance and fulfillment to my personal life.
4. What is your main tool in managing life while cultivating your career?
One of the most important tools I’ve developed over the years is the ability to intentionally prioritize—and to accept that not everything can be a priority all the time.
Work-life balance for me isn’t about perfect symmetry; it’s about being present where I am. When I’m at work, I give it my full focus. When I’m with family, I try to be just as intentional.
I’ve learned the value of sharing my goals with my family. When they understand what I’m working toward, they become part of the journey—not just spectators. Their support has been a huge source of strength and motivation.
I’ve also come to accept that some areas of life will ebb and flow. There are seasons where work demands more, and others where personal life takes the lead. Giving myself permission to shift focus without guilt (I try!!!!) .
Ultimately, my main tool is self-awareness—knowing what matters most in each moment, and being okay with not doing it all at once.
5. Do you have any advice or words of wisdom you would like to offer Saskatchewan Women in Ag members? Consider: some members are just entering the workforce, others have been working for 5 years and there are also those who are 10+ years into their careers.
To all the incredible women building careers in agriculture:
Give yourself grace. You don’t have to have it all figured out right away. Growth takes time, and learning is part of the journey.
Enjoy every step. Each role, challenge, and success is shaping you. Don’t rush through it—appreciate the path you’re on.
Make decisions that serve you and your family. Your career should align with your values and your life—not the other way around.
Know your priorities. They will guide you through tough decisions and help you stay grounded in what truly matters.
You belong here. And your path is uniquely yours—walk it with confidence.
6. Do you have any recommendations for books or podcast episodes you feel would be beneficial for our members?
I’ve always found deep motivation in the work of Simon Sinek. His focus on purpose-driven leadership, the power of “why,” and creating environments where people feel safe and inspired truly resonates with me. His insights remind me that leadership isn’t just about results—it’s about people, trust, and meaning.
I also believe in the importance of stepping away from the grind. There’s something magical about getting lost in a good book—I love Audible and listen to great books while I am driving. It’s not always about learning or productivity. Sometimes, it’s about recharging through imagination. Balancing inspiration with escape!
~The WIA Team