Minnesota Pork is excited to announce the launch of ‘Activate,’ an 18-month leadership development program designed to equip emerging leaders in the pork industry with essential skills, industry knowledge, and hands-on training needed to confidently advocate on behalf of Minnesota pig farmers.
Activate will guide twelve emerging leaders through hands-on training in key areas such as advocacy, communications, relationship management, leadership, and industry knowledge. Participants will gain the confidence and tools necessary to represent the pork industry, influence public policy, and engage in meaningful conversations.
“People are the pork industry’s greatest asset,” said Jill Resler, CEO at Minnesota Pork. “Through Activate, emerging leaders will receive hands-on training in advocacy, communication, relationship management, leadership, and key industry topics. This program will develop passionate, well-equipped leaders ready to advocate on behalf of Minnesota pig farmers to advance their freedom to operate. Minnesota Pork is proud to remain committed to cultivating the next generation of industry leaders.”
Activate was created to prepare the next generation of industry advocates. By investing in our next generation through programs like Activate, we’re making sure Minnesota pig farmers have strong, trusted voices representing them for years to come. This program not only builds leadership skills but also creates valuable opportunities to develop relationships.
“Programs like Activate reflect the Minnesota Pork Board’s commitment to investing in the future of our industry,” said Todd Selvik, president of the Minnesota Pork Board of Directors. “I am excited about the launch of Activate and the opportunity it brings to grow the next generation of leaders in our industry. I’m especially looking forward to seeing these individuals gain confidence and become strong advocates for Minnesota pig farmers.”
Applications for the inaugural Activate class are now open and are available online at https://www.mnpork.com/educationandleadership/activate/. The application deadline is Sunday, June 1, 2025. The first session of Activate will kick off at the Minnesota Pork office in July.
If you have any questions about Activate, please contact Kate Maddock at kate@mnpork.com.
