At Iowa Select Farms, the people behind the operations are the heart of the company’s success. One such standout is Jason Paysen, a Senior Wean-to-Market Supervisor, who proudly celebrates nearly 25 years of dedication to the company. Overseeing 78 hog farms and four supervisors—Dan Roth, Rod Winker, Nick Rothmeier, and Jose Vengas—Jason manages a dynamic team in western Iowa’s finishing region. His focus on teamwork, communication, and top-tier pig care continues to elevate Iowa Select Farms’ reputation for excellence.
A Career Built on Passion and Teamwork
“I take a lot of pride in the finishing system and the product we produce,” Jason shared. His nearly quarter-century career with Iowa Select Farms is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the swine industry and his team.
Jason works closely with his team of supervisors, site managers, and contract growers to ensure strong results in areas like livability, marketing performance, biosecurity, and production well-being. “We all depend on each other, know what to expect, and just focus on animal care; that’s everyone’s top priority,” Jason explained.
For Jason, success in swine production relies on two key factors: teamwork and communication. “We constantly communicate with our team, growers, vets, maintenance, transportation, and feed departments to provide the best possible care to our animals,” he said.
Pig Care at the Core
During a visit to Maple Finisher, a farm near Gowrie in Webster County, Jason and his colleague Nick Rothmeier showcased the daily operations of a 5,000-head barn. Walking through the facility, Jason highlighted the basics of pig care: feed, air, and water.
“We have a lot of eyes on our pigs and work together to keep them healthy,” he said. “It’s our job.” Jason’s pride in his team was evident as he emphasized the importance of routines and accountabilities in ensuring the highest standard of care.
The Critical Role of Biosecurity
“Biosecurity is a huge part of our pig care,” Jason noted. “When we prioritize biosecurity, it ensures that we keep our herd healthy and lays the groundwork for achieving our goals.” With a focus on minimizing disease risks, biosecurity remains a cornerstone of Iowa Select Farms’ commitment to animal well-being.
A Supervisor’s Perspective
Trent Myers, Jason’s supervisor, commended Jason’s leadership and dedication. “He’s always willing to learn and better himself and others. He’s the perfect example of someone who has stayed dedicated to improving, worked hard, and put forth the effort,” Trent shared.
Jason’s leadership has inspired his team and helped establish a culture of collaboration and excellence in Iowa Select Farms’ western finishing region.
A Legacy of Excellence
Jason’s nearly 25 years with Iowa Select Farms is a remarkable milestone that reflects his dedication to his craft, his team, and the swine industry. His work stands as a testament to the importance of teamwork, communication, and passion in delivering exceptional care to animals and achieving success in modern pork production.
As Jason looks to the future, his focus remains on continuous improvement and inspiring his team to reach new heights. His story is an example of how leadership, commitment, and collaboration drive success in the barn and beyond.
