Meet the New President of Iowa's Pork Industry
For as long as he can remember, Matt Gent has wanted to be a pig farmer. In fact, he loved farming so much that he gave up on high school sports because he wanted to get home sooner to help his dad on the farm.
“I’ve never looked back since,” Gent says. “I’m the third generation on our family pig farm, and the fourth generation is coming. We hope they have the same passion.”
There’s no denying Gent’s passion for raising pigs is why this Washington County, Iowa, pork producer stepped up to the challenge of being the new president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA). He replaces Trish Cook of Winthrop, Iowa, who now holds the position of past president on the IPPA Board of Directors. Cook was the first female president in IPPA’s history.
Gent praised Cook for her leadership during a very difficult year for pork producers.
“It is no secret that our industry is changing and as an organization we need to adapt to the needs of our producers and consumers,” Gent adds. “There is no doubt we have our work cut out for us this coming year.”
Farm Journal’s PORK met up with Gent during the Iowa Pork Congress to find out more about IPPA's new leader. From what you can expect from Gent as president to how he is focusing his goals in the year ahead, he shares his thoughts on a variety of topics.
Q. Tell us a little about yourself.
A. My family and I own and operate Prairie Pork in Wellman, Iowa. In addition to our farrow-to-finish operation, we also raise corn and soybeans. I pursued an ag business degree at Kirkwood Community College before returning to the farm. My wife Courtney and I have three kids: Madison, Mason and McKenna. When I’m not busy on the farm, I am active on the Washington County Pork Producers Association board of directors and several school committees.
Q. Why did you decide to step up to this challenge?
A. I want to help producers where I can and be a good voice for the industry.
Q. How would you describe yourself in a few words?
A. Trustworthy and passionate. I’m passionate about the pork industry, our employees and our farm. I like to think I’m a trustworthy source of information and want to help lead people.
Q. If you could only accomplish one thing this year, what would it be and why?
A. Given our current economic times in the pork industry, the No. 1 goal is to help producers wherever they can to be sustainable. Everyone defines sustainability differently. Profitability is the first word that comes to mind when I think about sustainability. We need to do whatever we can to keep the independent producers we have alive to help keep the integrity of our industry.
Q. It’s been a tough year for pork producers. What victories can the industry celebrate?
A. This last year has been rough – there is no denying that. But, our pork producers in Iowa are continuing to raise the highest quality, most economically friendly protein in the world. We need to do a better job of telling our story and get that economically friendly protein in the hands of consumers. We need to work together going forward and make it so next year there are a bunch of victories to celebrate.
Q. Why are you optimistic about future of swine industry in Iowa?
A. I’m extremely optimistic about our industry. Personally, we are growing our business at home, and that is directly related to the optimism we have. I believe consumers realize we are a good source of protein. As an industry, we just need to change how we deliver our products to the consumer. We need more product innovation. Our consumer is changing, so our product needs to change with the consumer. Pork is not going away, we’re just in a hiccup right now.
Q. What do you like to do for fun?
A. I enjoy outdoor activities such as hunting and riding four-wheelers or snowmobiles. Of course, as our kids get older, they are getting into sports and chasing them around doing what they love to do is lots of fun.
Q. What kind of leader is the IPPA getting?
A. I see myself as a genuine individual and straight-shooter. I will say things as they are. Whether the truth is right or wrong, that’s what people need to hear. I want to be a good, producer-driven leader for the industry because that’s what our industry needs – individual producers who step up more. Individual producers are the backbone of the industry. I want to help them continue their success.
Read More:
Freedom to Operate and Promotion Top Resolutions Passed by Iowa Pork Industry
Let’s Get Real About the Challenges Facing the Pork Industry
First Female Takes on Presidency of Iowa Pork Producers Association
