DES MOINES, IOWA (January 22, 2026) — The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) recognized Iowa’s top pork industry leaders during the Iowa Pork Congress banquet on January 21 in Des Moines, announcing the 2025 Master Pork Producers and additional industry awards.
Now in its 84th year, the Master Pork Producers program, co-sponsored by IPPA and Iowa State University Extension, honors individuals and families who demonstrate excellence in pork production, a commitment to We Care® principles, and strong community involvement. Since its inception in 1942, the program has recognized 1,546 Iowa pig farming businesses.
The 2025 Master Pork Producers are:
- Stu Conner, Glidden
- Tom Hemesath, State Center
- Brad & Sarah Lundell, Kiron
- Ryan McClintock, Shellsburg
- Larry and 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 their families and to carrying their legacy forward."
Honorary Master Pork Producers
Speed Herrig and Dr Jason Ross were honored for their lifelong dedication to supporting Iowa livestock farmers through mentorship and hands-on guidance.
Producers were also recognized as:
- Iowa Environmental Steward Award: Mark Schleisman, Lake City
- Master Pork Partners: Marv Schut (Driver of the Year), Troy Peterson (Partner of the Year), Dr Rachel Stika Jensen (Veterinarian of the Year)
- Pork All-American Award: Ben Bader, Jesup
- Master Seedstock Producer Award (Presented by the Iowa Purebred Swine Council): Terry and Nathan Kaufman, Anamosa
Together, these honorees reflect the diversity, innovation, and collaboration that define Iowa’s pork industry. Nominations for the 2025 Master Pork Program open in May.
Youth Leadership Team Announced
IPPA also announced the 2026 Iowa Pork Youth Leadership Team during Iowa Pork Congress. Trudy Locke of Manchester was named Iowa Pork Queen, with Gracelyn Brown of Dexter and Maddie Johnson of Waverly, serving as Iowa Pork Ambassadors. Each receives a $4,000 scholarship.
Selected through written exams, interviews, presentations, and evaluations of industry involvement, the team will represent Iowa pork at events statewide throughout 2026, including county fairs, the Iowa State Fair, and World Pork Expo.
“We had a great group of students competing in this year’s competition and I look forward to working with Trudy, Gracelyn, and Maddie in the coming year,” says Kelsey Sutter, Director of Marketing for the Iowa Pork Producers Association.
Additionally, Peytyn Schroeder of Le Mars received a $200 scholarship.
Iowa Pork Leadership Academy Honored
The 2025 Iowa Pork Leadership Academy, a program created to support Iowa’s pork producers who are committed to the pork industry, was also honored at the Iowa Pork Congress banquet. The 12 individuals who graduated from the Iowa Pork Leadership Academy and their counties are listed below.
· Ryan Bartachek, Buchanan County
· Grace Christensen, Story County
· Erik Darrington, Story County
· Blake Edler, Marshall County
· Caleb Hogan, Jones County
· Mackenzie Hora, Washington County
· Derek Hwang, Woodbury County
· Macie Reeb, Audubon County
· Adam Schmitt, Fayette County
· Scott Schroeder, Plymouth County
· Harvey Williams, Clay County
· Matt Zitelman, Buchanan County
About the Iowa Pork Producers Association
The mission of the Iowa Pork Producers Association is promoting, educating, and providing a leading voice for a sustainable, socially-responsible, and globally-competitive pork industry.
