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.
Our second session last week focused on swine genetics, especially the support and planning it takes to efficiently manage large-scale pork production. Joe Popplewell with Tyson Foods thoroughly walked students through the realistic calculations necessary to continuously produce high quality pork with evolving technology. 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 Animal Health Near and Far session, students heard from three influential veterinarians who serve Oklahoma pork producers in various ways. The veterinary panel included: Dr. Suzanne Genova of Red Dirt Veterinary Services; Dr. Jon Tangen of The HANOR Company; and, Dr. Karen Hall of Deep South Veterinary Solutions. These animal experts shared about their personal journeys into veterinary medicine, the challenges they face dealing with disease threats, and their perspectives on several industry hot topics. The students undoubtedly walked away with a greater appreciation for swine veterinarians and practical advice for strong herd health no matter what agricultural career path they follow.
The students 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 ideas to members of our board.