Oklahoma Pork's collegiate leadership program for agriculture students with an interest in swine-related careers is in full swing on OSU's campus in Stillwater. After a successful introduction to our state's pork industry and the Oklahoma Pork Council's role supporting our producers, we have now hosted two learning sessions featuring impressive guest speakers from across the state. During these Tuesday night meetings, we also highlight other agricultural role models for the students through presentations and featured Oklahoma Pork videos.
Last week's second session focused on swine genetics and breeding, especially the support and planning it takes to efficiently manage large-scale pork production. Joe Popplewell with Tyson Foods walked students through the realistic calculations necessary to continuously produce high quality pork with evolving technology at a mind-blowing scale to young people - many of whom have only been familiar with the show pig industry. Rob Richard from DNA Swine Genetics focused more on authentic relationship-building and his company's unique approach to genetic sales in a competitive market. Both of these Oklahoma Pork icons also shared stories from their accomplished careers and exposed students to work experiences available within their organizations.
During this week's "Work in Pork - Endless Opportunities to Grow" session, students heard an authentic recruitment pitch for swine-related careers from Thomas Craig and Dr. Richard Coffey. Thomas shared his unique journey from Las Vegas college student with no agriculture experience to his latest role as Director of Sows for The HANOR Company thanks to years of "saying yes" to new chances while working hard to help people and pigs. Dr. Coffey provided an insightful look at education and outreach opportunities related to pork production, including extension, higher education, and administration roles that benefit pig farmers in countless ways. Both of these passionate leaders also gave very thoughtful advice for navigating life and career changes that students are sure to face in the coming years.
Our 2025 Pork Industry Group members have been making the most of this eight-week experience by taking notes, asking questions, and growing their networks within pork production as they decide where to start their agricultural careers. Our team is excited to continue facilitating this program throughout the fall semester, and we are looking forward to several more learning sessions with guest speakers, an eventful industry trip to Northwest Oklahoma, and finally an awards banquet where the students will present creative ideas to members of our board.