Iowa’s pork industry took center stage at the 2026 Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) Iowa Pork Congress banquet on January 21, where top producers, partners, and emerging leaders were honored for excellence, stewardship, and service.
Now in its 84th year, the Master Pork Producers program—co-sponsored by IPPA and Iowa State University Extension—recognizes individuals and families who demonstrate leadership in pork production, commitment to We Care® principles, and meaningful community involvement. Since 1942, 1,546 Iowa pig farming businesses have earned this distinction.
2025 Master Pork Producers
-
Stu Conner, Glidden
-
Tom Hemesath, State Center
-
Brad & Sarah Lundell, Kiron
-
Ryan McClintock, Shellsburg
-
Larry & Susan Schott, Riverside
-
Justin Weber, Jesup
-
Ernest “EJ” Wolter Jr., West Bend
“The Master Pork awards showcase the best of pork production—those driven by passion and committed to producing safe, high-quality protein,” said IPPA Producer Outreach Director Brielle Smeby. “Beyond this, these producers are deeply rooted in their communities and committed to carrying their legacy forward.”
Honorary Master Pork Producers
-
Speed Herrig
-
Dr. Jason Ross
Recognized for a lifetime of mentorship and hands-on support of Iowa livestock producers.
Additional 2025 Honors
-
Iowa Environmental Steward Award: Mark Schleisman, Lake City
-
Master Pork Partners:
-
Driver of the Year — Marv Schut
-
Partner of the Year — Troy Peterson
-
Veterinarian of the Year — Dr. Rachel Stika Jensen
-
-
Pork All-American Award: Ben Bader, Jesup
-
Master Seedstock Producer Award (Iowa Purebred Swine Council): Terry & Nathan Kaufman, Anamosa
Together, these honorees reflect the diversity, innovation, and collaboration that define Iowa’s pork sector. Nominations for the 2026 Master Pork Program open in May.
Youth Leadership Team Announced
IPPA also introduced the 2026 Iowa Pork Youth Leadership Team:
-
Iowa Pork Queen: Trudy Locke, Manchester
-
Iowa Pork Ambassadors: Gracelyn Brown, Dexter; Maddie Johnson, Waverly
Each recipient earns a $4,000 scholarship and will represent Iowa pork at events statewide throughout 2026, including county fairs, the Iowa State Fair, and World Pork Expo.
Additionally, Peytyn Schroeder, Le Mars, received a $200 scholarship.
“We had a great group of students competing this year, and I look forward to working with Trudy, Gracelyn, and Maddie,” said Kelsey Sutter, IPPA Director of Marketing.
Iowa Pork Leadership Academy Graduates Honored
The 2025 Iowa Pork Leadership Academy recognized 12 graduates committed to advancing the industry:
-
Ryan Bartachek (Buchanan)
-
Grace Christensen (Story)
-
Erik Darrington (Story)
-
Blake Edler (Marshall)
-
Caleb Hogan (Jones)
-
Mackenzie Hora (Washington)
-
Derek Hwang (Woodbury)
-
Macie Reeb (Audubon)
-
Adam Schmitt (Fayette)
-
Scott Schroeder (Plymouth)
-
Harvey Williams (Clay)
-
Matt Zitelman (Buchanan)
Videos of award winners and event photos are available from IPPA.
