Each year the Iowa Pork Producers Association holds a remarkable event – the Iowa Pork Congress. For more than four decades it has been a much-anticipated opportunity for pork producers and assorted experts to come together to share views and information about one of the Hawkeye State’s most important industries.

This year’s edition of the annual events will be the 50th and it promises to be just as interesting as all of the previous ones.

The 2023 Iowa Pork Congress will take place Jan. 25-26 at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines. It has the distinction of being the nation’s largest winter swine conference and trade show.

The Pork Congress will feature an impressive roster of speakers and an impressive collection of exhibitors. The IPPA expects the event to host about of 300 trade-show booths. Typically, many of the exhibitors will be introducing new products or services at this show. That chance to see what is new and groundbreaking is a major reason for this gathering’s popularity. Companies not only from Iowa but also all across the nation will be on hand to showcase their products. There also will be a significant number of vendors from all around the globe.

Education has always been a big part of the Iowa Pork Congress. On Jan. 25, the keynote speaker will be Elizabeth McCormick, a former military Black Hawk helicopter pilot, who will talk about building a team approach on your farm. On Jan. 26, the keynote speaker will be David Horsager, a business author who will talk about how top leaders and businesses drive success by building trust.

Other highlights include:

• Presentations on the economic outlook for pork.

• Discussion of pork marketing strategies.

• Presentation of the Master Pork Producer Awards

• Panel discussion on swine health topics.

• Updates on farm sustainability practices.

Make plans now to attend what promises to be a one of 2023’s most important pork industry events.

You won’t be disappointed. You’ll learn a lot and have a great time.