Your Voice Matters at National Pork Industry Forum

Mar 17, 2025

The atmosphere at the National Pork Industry Forum was a little lighter than it was in 2024. More than 500 people gathered in Orlando, Fla., for one of the pork industry’s most anticipated events. Bryan Humphreys, CEO of the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), described the mood of the industry as cautiously optimistic.

“A number of things are happening politically, both domestically and internationally. Some of them directly impact the business of the pork industry and some of them do not,” Humphreys says. “That’s what NPPC exists for – to pay attention, to be engaged and to advocate and speak up on behalf of the American pork producer on those issues that are going to directly impact the industry.”

While there are certainly questions about what’s happening out there, Humphreys encourages producers to take solace in the fact that hardworking pork producers, staff members and allied industry leaders are coming together to improve the future of the pork industry this week.

Click here to see more...

Video: CEOs of the Industry: John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems

CEOs of the Industry, Jim sits down with John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems, one of the most quietly impressive 26,000-sow operations in the U.S. John shares how he grew from operator to partner, how Pike built a people-first culture with long-tenured managers, and why they’re committed to weaning bigger, stronger pigs at 25+ days.

John breaks down how Pike stays efficient in a tough economic environment, the power of their shareholder-owned farm model, and how their work with PIC and a 240-head boar facility drives genetics and health outcomes. He also opens up about the innovations Pike adopts — and how they decide what’s truly valuable versus industry hype.

From Prop 12 and labor challenges to trade, consumer expectations, and sustainability, John chooses a hot-button issue and shares how Pike is preparing for the future. The episode closes with a rapid-fire “Fast Five” — mindset, leadership, daily habits, and three words that define Pike Pig Systems in 2025.

If you want a look inside a people-driven, purpose-driven, quietly elite pork system, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.