Challenge accepted. Eight college students from across the country will gather June 3-6 at the World Pork Expo in Des Moines, Iowa, for their first meeting as the inaugural class in the PIGS (Personal Improvement and Growth through Swine) Leadership Program aimed at fostering the next generation of leaders in the swine industry.
The program is a joint effort between Showpig and the Pork Checkoff to provide an elite initiative for collegiate students who are passionate about the swine industry, but even more importantly, who are interested in gaining a broader swine industry perspective beyond the show ring.
The PIGS Leadership Program spans three intensive weeks of in-person leadership training as well as individual project work held between June and November 2024. The comprehensive lineup includes personal development sessions, leadership coaching, and engaging industry tours. Participants will also undertake a “Challenge Accepted” project, offering a unique opportunity to research and pitch innovative ideas to leave a lasting impact on the swine industry.
“Everything rises and falls on leadership. It is extremely important that the swine industry supports young people who have a background showing or raising pigs at an early age as they have an immediate connection to wanting to care for livestock and an appreciation for pork as a protein. They are and will be future leaders in the pork industry. The swine industry is hungry for the next generation that wants to serve,” says Brett Kaysen, senior vice president of producer and state engagement at the National Pork Board.
The June agenda will include sessions with Spike Craven, president of Integrity Communications, to enhance their personal brand and communication skills industry tours with Tyson and Iowa State University; and networking opportunities with pork industry professionals at WPX.
“The team at Showpig believes deeply that we have a responsibility to exhibitors and our industry that extends well beyond the show ring. Our slogan ‘more than a show pig’ is not just a saying, but something we will continue to invest in as we believe in the power of these young people and their ability to positively influence our future,” says Megan Wendt, CEO of Showpig.
In August, the team will reconvene in Chicago, Ill., and in St. Louis for the National Showpig Conference and Summit in November.
Stop by the National Pork Board Booth at World Pork Expo on Thursday, June 6, from 8-10 a.m. for a networking breakfast. Meet and mingle with the PIGS Ambassadors and hear from industry leaders including Andy Rash with Alltech, John Heins with National Pork Board, and Jackie Lackey from Showpig.
“This event is an excellent opportunity to learn about the power of showmen in the field and the importance of the PIGS Leadership Program,” Lackey says.
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