The swine industry plays a crucial role in North Carolina’s agricultural economy, supplying high-quality pork products to consumers while driving innovation in animal health, production efficiency, and sustainability. The upcoming 2025 NC State University Swine Innovation Forum provides a valuable opportunity for farmers, researchers, and industry professionals to gain insights, engage in discussions, and foster collaborations that will shape the future of swine production.

Scheduled for Tuesday, May 6, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the forum will take place at the Maxwell Center in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Hosted by NC State University, this event brings together a diverse group of swine industry stakeholders, including farmers, veterinarians, integrators, allied industry professionals, and researchers. Registration is free and available online at: https://swine.ces.ncsu.edu/2024/08/2025-nc-state-university-swine-forum-announced/.

The 2025 NC State University Swine Innovation Forum will feature a great lineup of keynote speakers, panel discussions, and research presentations focused on key industry topics such as animal health, genetics, nutrition, sustainability, and workforce development.

Some of this year’s keynote speakers include:

• Dr. Mary Battrell, Senior Veterinarian with Murphy Family Farms, will provide insights into the U.S. Swine Health Improvement Plan, detailing program participation requirements and benefits for the industry.
• Mark Daughtry, Sow Production Manager with Prestage Farms, will share expertise on sow production management, offering strategies to improve productivity and operational efficiency.
• Callie McAdams, founder of Vibranteco, is expected to discuss innovative approaches to sustainability within the swine industry, addressing environmental concerns and best practices for sustainable operations.
• Dr. Suzanne Leonard, Swine Extension Specialist at NC State University, will lead discussions on emerging issues in swine production and how extension programs can support producers in implementing new technologies and practices.
• Dr. Mark Knauer, Animal Science Professor at NC State University, will present on advancements in swine genetics and how selective breeding can improve production efficiency and herd health.
• Dr. Mahmoud Sharara, Assistant Professor in Biological and Agricultural Engineering at NC State University, will explore the latest innovations in manure management and environmental sustainability in swine production.

The forum provides a valuable opportunity for continuing education, offering six hours of continuing education credits for animal waste operators. Beyond the educational sessions, the forum fosters networking opportunities for producers, allied industry representatives, and researchers. The event provides a space to discuss challenges, share success stories, and build meaningful professional relationships. Attendees can also enjoy a catered BBQ lunch, allowing for casual networking in a relaxed setting.

The 2025 Swine Innovation Forum is made possible through the generous support of industry sponsors. Businesses and organizations interested in sponsorship opportunities can reach out to Dr. Suzanne Leonard at smleona4@ncsu.edu for more information. Sponsorship provides valuable visibility and demonstrates a commitment to advancing North Carolina’s swine industry.

Attending the 2025 NC State University Swine Innovation Forum is an opportunity for those involved in swine production to gain critical industry knowledge, interact with leading experts, and contribute to the sector’s continued success. Whether you are a producer seeking operational insights, a researcher presenting findings, or a student eager to network with industry leaders, this event is a can’t-miss experience.