For nearly 15 years, Kelly Kortleever has played a key role at Pipestone Veterinary Services as a Health Technician, focusing on auditing biosecurity, safety, and animal welfare at sow farms. “Health is one of the most important drivers of success for farmers, and it starts with the health of their sow herd and wean pigs,” she explains. “The team’s goal is to help farm staff implement effective disease prevention measures, including training pig care specialists and ensuring proper facility management.”
Kelly starts her day before sunrise, traveling between farms to conduct on-farm audits. “We meet with the barn crews to review their audits and provide training on improving biosecurity and welfare practices,” she says.
Kelly’s love for both animals and people is evident in her work. “The staff at the farms have such unique backgrounds, it’s just a pleasure to visit them daily,” she shares. Her passion for biosecurity and dedication to her team ensures that the farms and animals she serves remain protected and healthy. Her advice for those in the field? “Farms should start with strong biosecurity practices and lead by example. If leadership doesn’t believe in it, it’s hard to get the team to follow.”
Kelly Kortleever,
Health Tech Manager
Pipestone Veterinary Services
