Swine Spotlight Program
IPPA values the hard work done by pig farmers and employees to provide nutritious protein to consumers. To highlight these dedicated employees, we have created the Swine Spotlight Program in partnership with Boehringer Ingelheim.
Each month we are inviting farm owners or employers to nominate their employees that work on and off the farm that go above and beyond. Each employee chosen monthly will receive a grilling set, recognition on our social channels and Chop Talk, and be entered to win the grand prize selected in Pork Month, October 2024.
*Nominations are rolling
2024 Swine Spotlight Winners:
September Monthly Swine Spotlight
Peter Rood
For the September Monthly Swine Spotlight, we are recognizing Peter Rood, Sow Farm Manager for Paragon Pork.
“Pete Rood is one-of-a-kind,” says Dr. Rachel Schulte, nominator. “I first met Pete when I was a veterinary student and was visiting his farm. He impressed upon me the importance of stockmanship, work ethic, and common sense as ingredients to success in pork production.” Pete has been in the pork industry for 50 years. “Pete also has the remarkable ability to find humor in tough situations,” Dr. Schulte continues. “After veterinary school, I had the chance to work with and continue to learn from Pete. He has a memorable anecdote for each pig production situation, many of which come to mind as I go about my day at other farms. If you have the chance to talk with Pete, I hope you get the chance to ask him about his first farm, Baby Bacon, and also carnitine.”
Congratulations, Peter!
August Monthly Swine Spotlight
Victor Valenzuela
For the August Monthly Swine Spotlight, we are recognizing Victor Valenzuela, Wean to Finish Caretaker for Leman Farms Inc.
“Victor is a dedicated employee who has become a valuable member of the Leman Farms team,” says Chad Leman, owner. Victor has worked for Leman Farms for nearly 2 years and is responsible for the oversight of approximately 12,000 wean-finish spaces near Delavan.
“Victor works well with others and is resolved to learning as much as possible about all aspects of pig care,” Leman continues. “His personality is upbeat and positive, and he has a smile on his face and a fist bump for the team every morning.”
Congratulations, Victor!
July Monthly Swine Spotlight
Fredy Torres