Meet Beth Stevermer, 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
Hometown: Easton, Minn.
Education: Bachelor’s degree, Iowa State University; Pursuing law degree at Drake University Law School
Q. How did you become interested in pursuing a career in the swine industry?
A. I grew up on a pig farm and have always been very involved in the industry. I not only have a passion for the animals and the food we produce, but also enjoy interacting with the people who work in all aspects of the industry.
Q. Describe your internship experiences.
A. I have worked for multiple food companies, including a chicken product company and a cereal manufacturer. I was also the sustainability/science and technology intern at National Pork Board which furthered my passion for sustainability in the swine industry. Last summer, I was an associate at a private law firm and was able to work on cases in the agriculture and pork industry.
Q. Describe any undergraduate research experiences you’ve had.
A. At Iowa State, I conducted research on post-harvest protein amounts and changes in pork as part of my meat science minor.
Q. Describe any other swine-related experiences you’ve had.
A. I have had many opportunities to promote pork throughout my life. I have been to World Pork Expo as both an attendee and an exhibitor. I have also represented Minnesota pork producers while promoting pork at Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, Minn., and at the Minnesota State Fair. I enjoy interacting with consumers and helping them understand how pork fits into a healthy, balanced diet.
Q. Tell us about your current studies.
A. I am currently attending law school, focused on agricultural, food and environmental law. I want to use my law degree to create more transparency in the food industry, especially to prevent mislabeling of products and prevent consumers from receiving misinformation.
Q. What is your generation’s greatest challenge?
A. I think the greatest challenge for my generation entering the swine industry will be overcoming the spread of negative stories and misinformation on social media. My generation will have to be able to continue building trust with consumers to ensure the real story of pork is represented.
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Editor’s Note: Stevermer is part of the National Pork Board’s Pork Scholars Program, intended to develop highly trained professionals who are dedicated to a career in the U.S. swine industry. The program includes a research component with a cooperating university, a practical on-farm experience with an industry cooperator and cross-training across more than one academic discipline (i.e. genetics and data science).
