Promotion & Communications (Checkoff) Internship

Applications are now open for the Iowa Pork Checkoff Intern position for Summer 2027.
Due Date: Oct. 16, 2026

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This internship was created to encourage students to become involved in the pork industry and gain the knowledge and experience to become young leaders in education, research, and promotion. This internship works in conjunction with the efforts of the National Pork Board and the Pork Checkoff.

Who We Are

The Iowa Pork Producers Association is a grassroots organization serving as a unified voice for Iowa's pork producers, made up of about 70 county associations and more than 4,000 affiliated and associate members statewide.

Internship Details

  • Location: Iowa Pork Office – Clive, IA
  • Time Commitment: Minimum 12 weeks, approximately May-August 2027 (includes the Iowa State Fair Aug. 12-22)
  • Financial Assistance: $6,000 stipend to cover summer expenses + $3,500 scholarship paid directly to your college or institution
  • Additional Info: No benefits or housing provided. Use of an IPPA vehicle is included; personal vehicle mileage and work-related expenses will be reimbursed.

What You'll Do

Successful candidates will have the opportunity to choose an education, communication, or promotion emphasis, while working across all areas. Projects and tasks will be assigned and overseen by IPPA staff and may include:

  • Planning and facilitating pork promotion events
  • Planning and facilitating producer outreach and education events
  • Collaborating with individual staff members on ongoing or new projects, such as producer outreach program development, issues management PR campaigns, newsletter or magazine articles, youth events, graphic design, or social media
  • Planning and participating in activities at the Iowa State Fair, including the Ag Building, Farrowing Display, and Animal Learning Center
  • Other duties as assigned and of interest 

What You'll Gain

  • Firsthand experience in agricultural organization operations
  • Communication and public relations experience
  • Insight into pork industry promotional and public relations programs
  • A professional network of swine industry contacts to support your career search after graduation

Who Should Apply

This internship is open to any student, with preference to applicants who are:

  • Iowa residents
  • Full-time college students
  • In good scholastic standing
  • Passionate about agriculture, ideally the pork industry

Skills We're Looking For

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects
  • An outgoing personality and comfort meeting new people
  • Flexibility to work some nights and weekends
  • Basic knowledge of the pork/livestock industry, or willingness to learn

How to Apply

Submit your application online below and include:

  • Cover letter
  • Resume
  • 500-word essay: What are two to three things you would share with someone at a grocery store about why pork is safe to eat?

Questions?

Contact Hope Brecht at 515-225-7675 or email info@iowapork.org

 

Submit Application