Each year, the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) and the National Pork Board (NPB) announce a new Pork Leadership Institute (PLI) class. This program is dedicated to equipping pork producers with the knowledge and skills to lead the industry into the future.
The 2025 class includes 17 exceptional individuals from across the country who have been selected to join the program, representing a diverse group of leaders poised to drive innovation and advocacy within the pork sector, NPPC said in a release.
The Class of 2025 includes:
• Colorado – Jennifer Martin
• Illinois – Andrew Erickson
• Illinois – Randy Kuker
• Indiana – Matt Paschen
• Indiana – Tanner Smith
• Iowa – Matt Thome
• Iowa – Mikel Jones
• Iowa – Nathan Nieuwendorp
• Michigan – Forrest McKenzie
• Mississippi – Alanna Paden
• Missouri – Brian Gordon
• North Carolina – Samantha Raynor
• North Dakota – Nicholas Bundermann
• Pennsylvania – Weston Specht
• South Dakota – Dan Howell
• Tennessee – Brian Strobel
• Wisconsin – Bailey Fritsch
“As we step into 2025, ensuring the long-term success of America’s pork producers remains our priority,” Bryan Humphreys, NPPC’s CEO said in a release. “The Pork Leadership Institute equips participants with the tools and knowledge to advocate for their operations and the broader industry. These individuals are the future of pork production, serving as steadfast voices on the issues that matter most—from navigating legislative challenges to securing the freedom to operate. The graduates of this program will play a pivotal role in shaping a stronger, more resilient pork industry.”
PLI features five intensive sessions covering key areas of industry knowledge and advocacy. Not only do participants gain insights into the federal legislative and regulatory processes, but also the critical role of international trade, the functions of national and state pork organizations and the challenges facing today’s producers. In addition, extensive media and communication training rounds out the experience, NPPC wrote, ensuring participants are well-prepared to serve as effective grassroots advocates for the pork industry.
Learn more about the program and its impact at Pork Leadership Institute.
