Meet Courtney Archer, 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: 26
Education: Bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Texas Tech University; Pursuing Ph.D. at the University of Minnesota
Hometown: Lubbock, Texas
Q. How did you become interested in pursuing a career in the swine industry?
A. My interest in the swine industry began during my undergraduate studies when I had the opportunity to assist in research projects involving gestating sows, focusing on reproductive physiology and behavior. Working closely with pigs, I was fascinated by their complex behavior, intelligence and the dynamic nature of their interactions. This hands-on experience allowed me to appreciate the nuances of swine behavior and the importance of welfare and management practices. I was also drawn to the swine industry because of the people. I found the community to be incredibly welcoming and open, always willing to share knowledge and collaborate. The combination of working with such intelligent animals and being part of a supportive and enthusiastic community solidified my passion for the swine industry. This early exposure not only shaped my academic interests but also inspired me to pursue a career dedicated to improving swine welfare and productivity.
Q. Describe any undergraduate research experiences you’ve had.
A. During my undergraduate studies, I engaged in several research projects that significantly enhanced my understanding of animal behavior and reproductive physiology. One notable project was where we aimed to manipulate the estrous cycle of gilts using the BoarBetter pheromone. This study involved meticulously scan sampling behaviors to detect differences among experimental groups, ultimately determining if the pheromone could accelerate the onset of the first heat in gilts. Another project, we investigated the dilution sensitivity of piglets to maternal pheromones, specifically skatole and myristic acid odors. I contributed to this research by designing a mathematical formula to determine the piglets’ dilution preferences, which helped us identify the concentration at which these odors could be detected. This study provided valuable insights into the sensory capabilities of piglets and their interactions with maternal pheromones. Lastly, I participated in a cross-comparison study titled “Boar Pheromone vs Live Boar to Detect Estrus,” which sought to determine if a synthetic boar pheromone could accurately detect heat in sows in gestation stalls compared to a live boar. This research aimed to evaluate the feasibility of replacing live boars with pheromones to create a safer working environment for farm staff. The results indicated that the pheromone could potentially serve as an effective and safer alternative for heat detection. I contributed to the completion of a publication, “Understanding sow sexual behavior and the application of the boar pheromone to stimulate sow reproduction,” which was included in the book “Animal Reproduction in Veterinary Medicine” edited by F. Aral and published by IntechOpen. This publication, co-authored with Dr. John McGlone and other researchers, highlighted our findings on sow sexual behavior and the practical applications of boar pheromones in stimulating reproduction.
Q. Describe any other swine-related experiences you’ve had.
A. I had the opportunity to shadow the welfarists of two major swine production companies. During these experiences, I learned the intricacies of industry welfare practices and engaged with farmers to discuss current concerns in the swine industry. I participated in an intensive one-day rollover training focused on animal handling and public safety during animal trailer rollovers. The program emphasized emergency assessment, leadership in crisis situations, and ensuring the safety of both animals and people. I have also completed and am a certified on-farm swine auditor through the Professional Animal Auditor Certification Organization (PAACO). This certification enhances my ability to conduct thorough and professional audits, ensuring compliance with industry standards and improving animal welfare practices.
Q. Tell us about your current research.
A. I am currently researching the early detection and prevention of tail biting in pigs using advanced computer vision technology and immunological analysis. My work involves using the NUtrack Livestock Monitoring System to track behavioral changes and analyzing stress and immune markers to identify pigs predisposed to tail biting. This research aims to enhance pig welfare, reduce economic losses, and provide guidance on effective management strategies to prevent tail biting outbreaks.
Q. What’s the greatest challenge for your generation?
A. I believe the greatest challenge for my generation in the swine industry will be meeting evolving consumer demands and adhering to higher welfare standards. As consumers become increasingly concerned about animal welfare, they demand more humane treatment of livestock, transparency in production processes, and sustainable practices. This often translates into stricter regulations, requiring better living conditions for pigs, such as more space, enriched environments, and improved handling practices, which can be costly and complex to implement. Additionally, the growing demand for transparency and traceability in food production necessitates robust systems to track and document every stage of the production process, which can be resource-intensive and technologically demanding. Balancing these increased production costs while maintaining profitability in a competitive market presents a significant challenge. The industry must adapt by investing in research and development to find innovative ways to enhance animal welfare and meet consumer demands. Addressing these challenges involves continuous improvement, innovation, and a commitment to transparency, ensuring that the swine industry can build trust with consumers and secure a sustainable future.
