DES MOINES, IOWA — Each year, the Pork Leadership Institute (PLI) selects a distinguished group of pork producers to partake in its program. On Jan. 3, the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) and the National Pork Board unveiled the PLI class of 2024.

“PLI is instrumental in shaping the success of pork producers by cultivating knowledgeable industry ambassadors and future leaders,” said Bryan Humphreys, chief executive officer of NPPC. “Participation in PLI is not just an opportunity; it's a strategic imperative, as its graduates are empowered to articulate the compelling narrative of the pork industry — from local communities all the way to the heart of our nation's capital.”

PLI is a joint initiative by NPPC and NPB to provide a comprehensive training program for pork producers to learn how to spread the industry’s story to the public.

The yearlong PLI program comprises five sessions designed to provide a deep understanding of various aspects, including the federal legislative and regulatory process, the importance of international trade, the roles of national pork organizations and state pork associations, and contemporary challenges faced by producers. Additionally, participants undergo extensive media and communications training to emerge as effective grassroots advocates for the pork industry.

Collaborating closely with state pork association executives and field representatives, NPPC and NPB identified 19 outstanding individuals from across the United States to join PLI.

The PLI class of 2024 includes:

  • Daniel Tubbs (Alabama)
  • Kevin Rogers (Arizona)
  • Shelby Sopocy (California)
  • Felipe Gallegos (Colorado)
  • Corbin Uitermarkt (Illinois)
  • James Douglas (Indiana)
  • Doug Gruver (Iowa)
  • Nick Gilliland (Iowa)
  • Hyatt Frobose (Kansas)
  • Colin Kruithoff (Michigan)
  • Madison Hokanson (Minnesota)
  • Kramer Gary (Mississippi)
  • Donnie Hays (Missouri)
  • Logan Braaten (Montana)
  • Michele Ledoux (New York)
  • Blake Floars (North Carolina)
  • Mallory Strickland (North Carolina)
  • Colleen Hord (Ohio)
  • Mark Fuoss (South Dakota)