Brock Burgener

Brock is a 4th generation farmer from Shelby County.  From a young age, Brock knew that agriculture was going to play a big role in his life. Growing up on the family farm, some of his earliest memories were following his dad around in the farrowing houses or watching one of his uncle’s work on equipment in the shop. Throughout middle and high school, he assumed more responsibilities such as helping with weaning and learning to perform A.I. As he got busier with sports, FFA, and social life, working throughout the summer was still a priority. Brock continued to learn and grow on the farm, which ultimately paid off with a state winning record book in Swine production placement in 2016. Brock is an active member at First Christian Church in Moweaqua and volunteers as a youth baseball coach.

Brock attended Lakeland College for two years where he obtained his associates, before transferring to Illinois State University.  While at ISU, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in agronomy management in hopes to become more well-rounded when returning to the family farm. Before graduation, Brock and his father decided that it wouldn’t be a bad idea for him to experience the work force outside of the farm, so he took an ag retail job at The Equity for a year and a half. In June of 2021, he came back to the farm full time in the farrowing houses. He is thankful to his father for the foresight of the situation because Brock feels that it gave him a better appreciation of the opportunities on the farm.

Since returning to the farm, his goal each day has been to be better than the day before. While that goal doesn’t always happen, Brock feels as though these past two and a half years have provided him with opportunities to make significant progress, not only as an employee but as a person as well. He hopes to continue to build on a good foundation by learning new skills, making new connections, and obtaining more knowledge in the years to come. 

How do you believe the landscape of the industry has changed over the last five years?

“I think over the last five we’ve not only seen advancements in what we’re able to do genetically, but we’re also seeing farmers become more efficient with the pigs they’re producing. Market prices haven’t always been favorable, but I think now more than ever with the technology and practices we have available to us, the industry as a whole is learning how to most effectively and efficiently raise a market hog.”

• Shelby County Farm Bureau Young Farmers Program
• 2024 IPPA Family of the Year