The 2025 edition of the Ohio Pork Congress promises to be bigger and better than ever during its two-day run at Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center in Lima, Ohio, Feb. 4-5. Featuring in-depth presentations and discussions on swine health, economics, employee management, product innovation, and more, the Eastern Hog Belt’s largest pork-specific trade show brings it all together under one roof for producers and allied industry.
“I strongly encourage anyone involved in the pork industry to attend the Ohio Pork Congress,” said Nathan Schroeder, Ohio Pork Council president and producer from Putnam County. “It’s truly the best opportunity to learn what’s going on in our industry from top experts, to provide essential training to farm employees, and of course, to see what’s new on the trade show floor. Also, you won’t want to miss the unique opportunity to hear from a top food industry leader like Wendy’s at this year’s event.”
The speaker line-up at the Ohio Pork Congress provides insight on vital pork industry topics, as well as recognition and support of industry leaders and Friends of the Pork PAC. In addition to the Ohio Pork Council Update and the keynote presentation by Wendy’s Innovation Team, additional educational seminars and breakout sessions include:
- Biosecurity Enhancement: Dr. Rebecca Robbins, PIC
- H5N1 Influenza Panel: Dr. Anna Forseth, National Pork Producers Council; Dr. Marisa Rotolo, National Pork Board; and Dr. Andy Bowman, Ohio State University
- Ohio Department of Ag Update: Dr. Dennis Summers, State Veterinarian
- Foreign Animal Disease Response Panel: Nathan Isler, Islercrest Farms; Dr. Bethany Heitkamp, Cooper Farms; and Dr. Lucas Buehler, Four Star Veterinary Service
- PRRS Update: Dr. Andreia Arruda, Ohio State University
- Sow Health Care: Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger, Topigs Norsvin
- Employee Onboarding: How to Keep & Attract Good Employees: Stacy Voight, Topigs Norsvin; Melanie Langley, Fine Swine; and Kevin Stuckey, Cooper Farms.
- LEADR Training: Lucy Russell, National Pork Producers Council
- Ohio Pork Speakers Bureau Training: Mike King, Ohio Pork Council
- Pork Demand: Dr. David Newman, National Pork Board
- Sustainability – Why It Matters: Carol Gstalder, Heart & Mind Strategies; Hord Family Farms
- Converting Barn to Group Housing: Gestal Panel
- Ventilation Tips for Today: Glen Arnold, Ohio State University
- Sow Health in Lactation (Spanish-language session): Dr. Cipriano De Abreu, Topigs
- Identifying Vices & Knowing Why It Happens: Kendall Weger, PIC
- NPPC’s Political Strategy: NPPC team of Bryan Humphreys, Chase Adams, Andrew Beardsley, Josh Scramlin
- Economic Update: Todd Thurman, Swine Insights International
“It’s always amazing to hear from so many enthusiastic and knowledgeable people in our industry at the Ohio Pork Congress,” Schroeder said. “The face-to-face networking and professional development opportunities offered during this event don’t happen every day, which is why I’m urging everyone to register now to be in Lima this February. Whether it’s the thought-provoking seminars, our new Spanish-language breakout session, the social activities, or simply reconnecting with industry friends, you don’t want to miss out.”
Registration information is available at www.ohioporkcongress.org.
About The Ohio Pork Council
The Ohio Pork Council was established in 1968, beginning with nearly 800 pig farmers dedicated to the task of promoting their own product. Currently, OPC has approximately 2,500 members. Their mission is to serve and benefit all Ohio pork producers. To learn more about the Ohio Pork Council, visit www.OhioPork.org or call 614-882-5887.
