Sometimes good ideas are truly a win for everybody involved. That’s how the Oklahoma Pork Council felt when our fantastic Secretary of Agriculture Blayne Arthur approached us about assisting with her fun idea to make 2025 the "Year of Youth in Agriculture" throughout the state of Oklahoma.

With a board and staff who focus a good portion of our passion on the next generation of pork leaders, we could not be more excited for this chance to spotlight so much of the tremendous workforce development happening in Oklahoma. From the Pork Partners Derby to Pork Industry Group at OSU - and a dozen rewarding opportunities with pig-loving students in-between - the Oklahoma Pork Council is certainly up for the challenge to make this year extra special for the young people who will "fill our boots" in the future.

“These young people who want to grow up and continue their family’s legacy are our next generation of leaders in the agriculture industry, as well as in our communities and our state,” said Secretary of Arthur as she announced the plan alongside several high school FFA and 4-H leaders. “Our hope is that by collectively elevating these young people, we will also create awareness amongst the general public of the importance of the next generation of ag producers and professionals who will help us continue to feed, fuel and clothe a growing world population.”

We thank Secretary Arthur and all involved in this creative initiative that aligns perfectly with Oklahoma Pork's "Workforce at All Levels" strategic intention. We have a few new projects planned for 2025 that will help pork production be a significant part of the celebrations. To our members - we encourage you to engage with youth in your own communities who could be part of our industry in the future. If you have ideas or questions on recruiting young people with help from the Oklahoma Pork Council, click here to let us know!