Meet Sara Williams, our latest addition to Farm Journal’s PORK’s Up & Coming Leaders feature. We are showcasing some of the fresh, new voices of the pork industry who combine innovative thought and work ethic with scientific savvy and a passion to make a difference.
Age: 24
Education: Bachelor’s degree, Eckerd College; Master’s degree from University of Minnesota; Pursuing DVM at University of Guelph – Ontario Veterinary College
Hometown: Northbrook, Ill.
Q. How did you become interested in pursuing a career in the swine industry?
A. I became interested in swine after meeting farmers and agricultural professionals while volunteering as an undergraduate student. I learned about challenges with herd medicine and assorted topics in the agricultural community. I wanted to explore more in the agricultural and swine world after my bachelor’s, which led to a master’s program in animal science.
Q. Describe your internship experiences.
A. I was an agriculture and swine intern at the University of Minnesota’s West Central Research and Outreach Center in Morris, Minn in the summer of 2023. I assisted in swine nutrition and welfare research projects, aided in the daily care and maintenance of swine, and participated in the planning and implementation of outreach activities.
I also had a veterinary internship with Carthage Veterinary Services in Carthage, Ill., during the summer of 2024. I collected biological samples to perform assorted diagnostic veterinary tests, conducted swine research regarding the physiological effects of Meloxicam on wean-to-estrous interval, and assisted swine veterinarians and farm managers in swine health and production activities.
Q. Describe your undergraduate research experiences.
A. During my undergraduate studies at Eckerd College, I collaborated with Dr. Ray Ball, DVM, on a research project focused on developing innovative treatments for manatees suffering from cold stress.
Q. Describe other swine-related experiences.
A. Growing up near Chicago before moving to Florida, I didn’t have exposure to 4-H or FFA activities. In fact, I had never interacted with pigs before starting my master’s. Once I moved to Minnesota, I embraced every opportunity to engage in swine-related experiences.
Q. Tell us about your current studies.
A. I recently completed my master’s degree, researching the effects of a feed sanitizer and a feed additive on reproductive performance and microbiome of sows and piglets. We believe this work could shed novel insights into the relationship between diet modifications and the microbiome of sows pre and post farrowing.
Q. What is your generation’s greatest challenge?
A. One of the greatest challenges for my generation entering the swine industry is attracting and integrating young people who do not have a traditional background in agriculture or swine production. Personally, I am one of those individuals. Initially, it was quite daunting to navigate this industry without the conventional experience. However, I believe that by embracing new ideas and perspectives, we can foster growth and innovation within the industry, making it more accessible and appealing to a diverse generation.
