Iowa Pork Leadership Academy 

Iowa’s agriculture leadership is built on generations of individuals who have made agriculture their cause, not just their job. IPPA recognizes that the future of Iowa’s pork industry depends on developing new leaders who share the same passion. The Iowa Pork Leadership Academy (IPLA) gives Iowa's pork producers the tools to grow into that role.

Apply for 2027 Cohort 

Applications are due to Brielle Smeby no later than Nov. 30, 2026. 

What You'll Gain

IPLA is built around four things every pork industry leader needs:

  • A working knowledge of IPPA and the organizations that work alongside it to support Iowa's producers
  • Hands-on experience influencing legislation that affects pig farmers
  • A network of like-minded young professionals across the industry
  • A deeper understanding of the pork industry's economic impact on Iowa

Who It's For

IPLA is for men and women who want to help build a better future for Iowa's pig farmers — by connecting with their communities and supporting the long-term profitability of the pork industry in Iowa. Each year's cohort brings together producers, caretakers, and allied industry professionals from across the state.

Program Year at a Glance

Pork Checkoff Focus — February

  • Learn more about the National Pork Board and how Pork Checkoff funds are used
  • Participate in leadership training
  • Industry tour (TBD location)

Legislative Focus — March

  • Learn more about the National Pork Producers Council and how voluntary checkoff funds are used
  • Gain understanding of how state and federal policy work and how to effectively talk with lawmakers
  • Visit the Iowa State Capitol and meet with state legislators and policy officials

Washington, D.C. Trip — June

  • Visit National Pork Producers Council's public policy office to understand their role on behalf of pork producers
  • Discuss pork industry priorities with Iowa's U.S. Representatives and Senators offices

Carolinas Trip — September

  • Connect with the North Carolina pork industry
  • Learn about other agricultural commodities
  • Tour farms, cargo ports, and food processing facilities

Iowa Pork Congress — January

Graduation is held during the Master Pork Awards banquet

Iowa's Next Pork Leaders

Participants travel the country, meet industry leaders from other states, and develop the leadership skills to represent Iowa's pork industry with confidence. Curious what a full year looks like in practice? Read the Class of 2025 program overview to see how last year's cohort built skills and relationships from the Iowa Capitol to Capitol Hill and beyond.