As the pork industry faces challenges in attracting young talent, partnerships like those between Zoetis and the Oklahoma Pork Council are paving the way for a stronger future. With fewer individuals pursuing careers in agriculture, these initiatives focus on bridging the skills gap and fostering the next generation of leaders in the swine industry.
Supporting Youth Through Education and Mentorship
Zoetis’ dedication to nurturing young talent was spotlighted during National Pork Month in October through a community giving initiative in collaboration with the Oklahoma Pork Council. The funds were used to establish scholarships for students passionate about agriculture, underscoring the belief that investing in young people is vital for the industry’s future.
“The goal is to ensure the swine industry is protected and thriving for the next generation,” said McKenzie Squires, Strategic Account Manager for Zoetis Pork.
Squires highlighted the challenge of staying connected with youth as they advance in their education. To address this, Zoetis works closely with agricultural colleges and programs, while engaging with initiatives like the Oklahoma Pork Council’s Pork Industry Group, which provides students with immersive experiences showcasing careers in food production.
Bridging the Gap: The Role of Industry Leaders
The Oklahoma Pork Council, supported by partners like Zoetis, has launched initiatives to prepare students for rewarding careers in the pork industry. From veterinarians to agricultural educators, the program highlights diverse opportunities available to young talent.
“We can’t overstate the importance of involvement from industry leaders like Zoetis as we engage our pork producers and the next generation of agriculturalists,” said Ashton Johnston, Industry Relations Manager for the Oklahoma Pork Council.
The “One Pork” Initiative
Through the “One Pork” initiative, the Oklahoma Pork Council and Zoetis emphasize collaboration across all sectors of the pork industry. This strategy promotes educational opportunities and focuses on critical issues like biosecurity and foreign animal disease preparedness, ensuring that the next generation is ready to meet the challenges of modern pork production.
“Aligning on biosecurity and preparing youth for involvement in the industry is essential,” said Squires. “These efforts cultivate a shared sense of purpose that will sustain the future of pork production.”
Empowering Future Leaders
Oklahoma’s pork industry ranks as the state’s second-largest agricultural enterprise, providing over 34,000 jobs and producing 9.35 million pigs annually. Programs like the Pork Industry Group and Zoetis’ community giving initiative are critical to empowering the next generation to succeed in feeding the world.
Zoetis continues to support producers and communities through annual giving, internships, training programs, and cutting-edge research, ensuring that young individuals have pathways to success in agriculture.
For more information on these initiatives and how you can contribute, reach out to your Zoetis Field Representative or visit Zoetis Pork.
