International Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Congress

May 13, 2015

The Planning Committee is pleased to announce that the International Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (IPRRS) Congress will be held on June 3rd-5th, 2015, in the historical city of Ghent, Belgium.

For students applying for the Benfield Travel Fellowship, extra funding has been made available to support student travel for qualified graduate students conducting graduate studies in the US. All qualified students who apply by the March 31 deadline will receive some level of support for up to a $2,000 maximum. For travel fellowship instructions, click here: http://www.prrscongress.ugent.be/page2/page2.html

The first day will be devoted to review progress in the field of PRRSV evolution, replication cycle, pathogenesis and immunity. The second day will cover all aspects linked to PRRS control, including diagnostics and vaccines. A round table aiming at defining strategies for future PRRS control actions in Europe, America and Asia will be organized. Veterinarians, virologists, academics, authorities, pharmaceutical industries as well as PhD students are encouraged to participate.

Source: AASV

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.