My name is Kate Jackson, and I am one of the Oklahoma Pork Council interns this summer. I am extremely honored to have been chosen for this opportunity because I was raised showing pigs since I was five years old, and my passion for the pork industry has never stopped growing. I am currently going into my senior year at Oklahoma State University where I am pursuing a degree in Agricultural Communications with a double minor in Marketing and Agribusiness. Last fall, I was also a member of the 2022 Oklahoma Pork Council Pork Industry Group where I met the team and several pork producers.

I grew up in Mountain View Oklahoma on my family’s farm. We have a small cow-calf operation and farm a little bit of everything from wheat to cowpeas. I think being a part of any kind of agriculture – whether its crop farming, hogs, cattle, or showing livestock – is one of the best places to learn. When I found the Oklahoma Pork Council internship, I immediately knew this is where I wanted to spend my summer.

Before joining Pork Industry Group last year, I did not understand how vital commercial pork production is to Oklahoma. Showing pigs has been one of the best experiences I could have ever imagined, and the Oklahoma pork industry has always supported me throughout shows like OYE and bonus sales. I have always had a high respect for pork producers because of how Oklahoma Pork Council support youth and your great passion. This summer I plan to be all-in for the industry that has always been near and dear to my heart as I learn everything about the pork industry I possibly can. I cannot wait to promote pork and our wonderful pork producers!

I am also excited to work with the talented, driven Oklahoma Pork Council team who I admire. Since I will graduate from OSU next spring, this internship is the perfect opportunity for me to get hands-on job experience. I cannot wait to serve the pork producers of Oklahoma with this new journey!