Increasing Women in Hunting and Waterfowling

Join us for an impactful and inspiring conversation as we address the importance of increasing female participation in hunting and waterfowling. Our panel discussion aims to achieve several key objectives, focusing on promoting female interest in waterfowling while shedding light on the experiences and perspectives of our esteemed panel members.

Throughout the discussion, our panel members will share their personal stories and motivations for becoming involved in hunting and waterfowling.

The discussion will also shed light on the opportunities that have emerged for our panel members because of their involvement in these fields. From exciting career paths and unforgettable experiences to the formation of lifelong friendships.

This panel discussion is not solely for women. We welcome males in the audience to attend and gain a different perspective and viewpoint. By fostering a diverse and inclusive audience, we can facilitate a richer and more comprehensive understanding of the challenges.

Connie Markham (Host)

Residing in the charming town of East Troy, WI, Connie Markham is a passionate individual with a love for her community and the great outdoors. Her true passion lies in waterfowling across the country, cherishing the scenic beauty and tranquility it offers.

As an active member of the outdoor community, Connie dedicates her time to various local, state, and national initiatives, including WWA, WHE, WWF, and Learn to Hunt programs, enriching the lives of those around her. Her passion for environmental conservation and outdoor activities drives her commitment to protecting natural wonders for future generations.

In her free time, Connie explores nearby wetlands, rivers, lakes, and trails, participates in community events, and connects with fellow waterfowl enthusiasts. Her unwavering dedication to the environment and community makes her a cherished and valued member.

Danielle Fairman

Danielle Fairman, an avid outdoors enthusiast from Wisconsin, embraces the thrilling world of hunting and cherishes her profound love for nature. With five years of co-hosting ‘Kill it, Clean it, Cook it’ and now on ‘Raised in Wisco,’ she inspires fellow outdoor enthusiasts. As a full-time union operator and a skilled hunter with her loyal fox red lab, Bandit, Danielle brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for excellence to every pursuit. Her goal is to inspire others to cherish and preserve the wonders of the outdoors, forging lasting memories in the untamed wild.

Elizabeth Schwalbach

Raised on a picturesque dairy farm in Freedom, Wisconsin, Elizabeth Schwalbach’s rural upbringing has shaped her love for nature and passion for agriculture. As an Agriculture Account Manager for We Energies, she supports farmers with sustainable energy solutions. Six years ago, Elizabeth embraced hunting, finding joy in pursuing deer, turkey, ducks, and geese. An ardent observer of nature, she cherishes moments spent outdoors. Beyond her career and hunting, Elizabeth enjoys gardening, fishing, and running, staying connected with the land. Her life weaves together agriculture, hunting, and appreciation for the great outdoors, exemplifying the harmony between her rural roots and conservation.

Makayla Jacobs

In the world of waterfowl hunting for 4 years, I began this thrilling pursuit with my boyfriend’s guidance. Joining all-girls hunting trips, I ventured out on my own, embracing waterfowl hunting alongside bow hunting and fishing. The mesmerizing sight of decoying birds and their flight patterns fills me with wonder. Growing up on a farm, my deep connection to the outdoors led me to an 8-year military journey as a water treatment specialist. Now, an environmental engineer in shipbuilding for the navy, I pursue knowledge and a bachelor’s in environmental management. Hunting and fishing are my lifelines, shaping who I am today.

Megan Salazar

A passionate waterfowl enthusiast from Wisconsin, Megan Salazar’s dedication to waterfowl conservation and hunting shines through her work with the Wisconsin Waterfowl Associations. Embracing her love for the state’s wetlands and waterways, she advocates for the protection of these habitats for future generations. As an avid waterfowl hunter, Megan’s experiences in the field deepen her appreciation for the delicate balance between hunters, waterfowl, and the environment. Join her at the panel discussion to share her insights and commitment to preserving Wisconsin’s waterfowl heritage, inspiring and educating all attendees.

Kaitlin Kernosky

A passionate advocate of upland bird and waterfowl hunting, Kaitlin Kernosky has 12 years of experience in both fields. Her journey into waterfowl hunting began with an invitation from friends, sparking a deep and enduring love for the sport. For Kaitlin, hunting is more than a hobby; it’s a chance to create cherished memories with loved ones amidst nature’s beauty.

Joined by her loyal companion, a 5-year-old Golden Retriever named “Teal,” Kaitlin thrives in continuous training for the fall hunting seasons. Besides bird hunting, she explores diverse outdoor interests like fishing, trapping, hockey, and downhill skiing, all fueling her zest for life and nature.

With 11 years as a Conservation Warden with the DNR, Kaitlin connects with sportsmen and community members, fostering her passion for wildlife conservation. Her dedication to preserving nature and outdoor pursuits make her a valuable addition to the all-ladies discussion panel at the waterfowl EXPO.