Pork Industry's Largest Winter Event Coming to Des Moines

December 11, 2025

The pork industry’s largest winter gathering returns to Des Moines in January. The Iowa Pork Producers Association invites pork producers and allied industry professionals to attend the 2026 Iowa Pork Congress, January 21–22 at the Iowa Events Center.

The annual event features 225+ exhibitors, a strong educational program, and two days of networking and recognition for Iowa’s pork industry.

On Wednesday, Jan. 21, the trade show runs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. alongside the Student Research Poster Contest. The educational lineup includes:

  • “Coffee Chat with Eldon: DNR Rules, Court Cases, and Animal Welfare Laws” with Eldon McAfee
  • Keynote: “Cultivating a Mindset of Growth and Grit in Agriculture” with retired Brigadier General Mike Oster
  • “Pork, Policy, Politics, and Populism” with entrepreneur and investor Al Tank
  • “Economic and Livestock Market Outlook” with Dr. Lee Schulz, Ever.Ag

Wednesday evening features the annual Iowa Pork Congress Banquet, highlighted by the Master Pork Awards Program, which honors industry leaders for outstanding efficiency, innovation, and excellence. The banquet will also celebrate the future of the industry with the announcement of the 2026 Iowa Pork Youth Leadership Team winners, including the crowning of the new Iowa Pork Queen.

On Thursday, Jan. 22, the trade show continues 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with the poster contest display open during show hours, and the convention concluding at 2 p.m. Educational sessions include:

  • “What’s in the Future for an Iowa Pork Producer - Artificial Intelligence, Data Utilization and Emerging Technologies”
  • “The Many Moments of a Hog – Let’s Get Creative” (pork fabrication and discussion) with Kari Underly, founder of Range Meat Academy

New for 2026, Iowa Pork Congress will also offer Spanish-language technical training sessions, expanding access to education for pork production employees.

“Iowa Pork Congress is where our industry connects, learns, and moves forward together,” said Aaron Juergens, IPPA president. “From policy and markets to hands-on production and leadership, this event delivers real value for producers and our partners.”

Registration and more information is available at IowaPorkCongress.org.