Iowa Pork Collegiate Team 

What is the Iowa Pork Collegiate Team?

A team of 10 collegiate individuals with the goal to grow as future leaders of the pork industry by enhancing their leadership, promotion, and advocacy skills.

Applications Now Open

Iowa college students who want to grow as leaders and advocates for the pork industry are encouraged to apply for the 2027 Iowa Pork Collegiate Team.

Applications are open through Dec. 1, 2026

Click to Apply

Who can apply?

Any post-secondary student who has completed high school and is attending a two- to four-year institution with a demonstrated interest in positively contributing to the pork industry. Students with a freshman, sophomore, or junior classification are eligible to apply. Those with an expected graduation date of May 2026 are not eligible to apply.

Up to 10 students are selected. Getting representation from a variety of universities and colleges is a priority. We encourage students to apply again if they do not get in their first year applying. 

 

2027 Schedule

Session 1: (Required) Feb. 18 and 19 (TWO DAY SESSION) | IPPA Office: Clive, IA

  • Day 1 - Collegiate Team expectations and learn about the Iowa Pork Producers Association and the pork industry in Iowa. Team activity and dinner to follow. 
  • Day 2 - Leadership Training

Session 2 : (Required) March 25 -  Public Speaking/Advocacy Training |IPPA Office: Clive, IA

Session 3 : (Required) April 22 - Pork & Policy Day | NPPC Office: Urbandale, IA

August : (Optional) Volunteer at the Iowa State Fair | Des Moines, IA

October : (Optional) Iowa Pork Industry Tour | Location TBD

Iowa Pork Congress: (Optional) TBD - The team will be recognized at the 2028 Iowa Pork Congress | Des Moines, IA

*Members of the Iowa Pork Collegiate Team will also be encouraged to get involved and participate in local and other state activities.

Cost:
Meals, lodging, and other expenses will be paid for by the Iowa Pork Producers Association.

Scholarship:
All team members will receive a $1,000 scholarship if requirements are met.

Participants must:
  • Attend all required sessions (3)
  • Complete 35 volunteer hours (February - End of January) - This can include but is not limited to: attending events while representing the pork industry and speaking to different groups to educate others about the pork industry.
  • Complete a capstone project.
  • Be an Iowa resident.
  • Attend a two- to four-year institution.
  • Demonstrate an interest in positively contributing to the pork industry.

NOTE: Members will sign a form agreeing to attend three sessions during the year, as well as other Iowa Pork Collegiate Team requirements. Team members must also be available via email and by phone during the year.