Thayer Sow Farm has been honored with the SelectPride award, a recognition of their outstanding teamwork, dedication to animal care, and excellence in swine production. Led by Manager Raymond Barlage, the farm’s close-knit team has consistently demonstrated a high level of commitment to production success and fostering a positive workplace culture.
“We have a really good team here,” says Raymond. “To be successful, you need to have a good culture and morale, which I think we do.” Each member of the Thayer Sow Farm team plays a crucial role, specializing in day-one care, farrowing, breeding, and heat-checking. The team includes Marcos Abidan Banda Barron, Letitia Barlage, Wendy Carrera de la Cruz, Lucio Cordova Dominguez, Patricia Gamboa Ruiz, Jorge Garcia Hernandez, Patricia Garcia Jimenez, Jose Hernandez Garcia, Carla Laurenzara Valtierra, Jose Romero Martinez, Francisco Salado Avila, Erica Shields, Aldo Vazquez Alvaro, and Ivan Diaz Hurtado.
Farm Supervisor Don Hunt highlights how the team’s approach to tracking weekly production metrics—such as total born, farrow rates, and breed targets—drives their success. “They keep close tabs on their weekly numbers so they can compare themselves to other farms,” Don explains. “Their ability to set plans and stick to the details has helped them consistently achieve production goals, such as a 90% farrow rate and an average of 17 total born.”
Strong leadership and mentorship have been pivotal to Thayer’s success. The farm’s Breeding Department Head, Aldo Vazquez, and Farrowing Department Head, Erica Shields, work closely with Raymond to ensure clear communication across the team. Don describes this leadership trio as supportive and highly respectful of each other’s contributions. “They understand the impact they have on their team, the animal’s well-being, and the overall performance of the farm,” he says.
Reflecting on his own journey, Raymond credits his predecessors, particularly former long-time manager Bert Becker, who managed the farm for nearly 28 years. “I owe a lot to Don and Bert,” Raymond shares. “Bert played a crucial role in shaping this farm into what it is today, and I feel fortunate to continue the legacy she established.”
The entire Thayer team is united in their commitment to consistent excellence in swine care. “We are dedicated to remaining consistent in our efforts to send out as many healthy pigs as possible,” says Raymond. “We know what needs to be done.”
Congratulations to Raymond and the entire Thayer Sow Farm team for this well-deserved recognition. Their SelectPride award showcases the positive results of a dedicated team and a thriving culture of support and professionalism at Thayer Sow Farm.
