In 2018, the Oklahoma Pork Council established Excellence Awards to recognize those pork producers who have made the daily work of raising pigs more than just a job, but a passionate calling to take care of their animals and the people around them. This award covers all sectors of pork production, and it rewards those outstanding producers who excel in at least one of Oklahoma Pork’s four strategic intentions.

Throughout his 25 years raising quality show pigs, Kyle Schwerdtfeger has been a vocal advocate for the pork industry. His passion drives him to be a leader among his peers, which led to his nomination for the 2023 Oklahoma Pork Council Excellence Award.

Kyle is a sales representative for P&K Equipment in Shawnee, and his family has been raising pigs for more than two decades. The Schwerdtfeger family continues to improve herd health and champion strong biosecurity practices throughout the livestock showing community. Kyle’s family has been proud of their successful boar Bone-N-Hand that sired the Grand Barrow at OYE 2015, the Grand Barrow at OYE 2016 and also the OYE Reserve Grand and Bronze Medallion Barrow in 2016.

Today, Kyle is grateful to have a loyal customer base that understands his commitment to herd health and helps reduce foot traffic on the farm. For their efforts prioritizing disease prevention, Kyle and his daughter Karli also starred in an educational biosecurity video for the Oklahoma Pork Council. In addition to helping young people succeed in the show ring, Kyle enjoys spending time with his wife Kerri and two children.