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PA Pork Producers Council Hosts Emerging Leaders for Summer Program in Lewisburg 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

July 25, 2025 

Editor’s Note: Photo Attached: Emerging Leaders Group at Pik Rite in Lewisburg, PA. 

PA Pork Producers Council Hosts Emerging Leaders for Summer Program in Lewisburg 

The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council welcomed its 2025 Emerging Leaders class to Lewisburg on July 25th, for a summer event focused on expanding knowledge of the pork industry and its allied sectors. 

The day began with a presentation from Kevin Sheehan, Senior Director of Processor Engagement at the National Pork Board. His session, titled Packer 101, offered attendees an inside look at the pork processing sector, highlighting how pork products move from farms to consumers and the vital role packers play in the supply chain. 

The class then heard from Nat Stas, Technical Services Director at Pig Improvement Company (PIC) and a board member of the Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council. Nat shared his expertise on swine genetics, explaining how genetics influence multiple aspects of pork production—including feed efficiency, animal health, and overall product quality. 

To conclude the day, the group toured Pik Rite, a manufacturing company based in Lewisburg specializing in agricultural equipment. The Emerging Leaders learned about Pik Rite’s history, future business plans, and experienced a comprehensive tour of the facility—from initial fabrication in the warehouse to the final assembly of spreaders and trucks ready for delivery. 

“We are incredibly grateful to Kevin Sheehan, Nat Stas, and the team at Pik Rite for taking the time to speak with our Emerging Leaders,” said Katelyn Fessler, communications specialist. “These experiences provide invaluable insight into the diverse sectors that support pig farming in Pennsylvania and beyond.” 

The Emerging Leaders program, coordinated by the PA Pork Producers Council, aims to develop the next generation of advocates and professionals in the pork industry through hands-on learning, leadership development, and industry networking. 

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The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council (PPPC) administers the Pork Checkoff on behalf of the state’s nearly 3,000 pig farmers. PPPC acts as a steward for Pork Checkoff funds at the state level and is charged with executing specific programs in the areas of promotion, research and education. No funds may be used for lobbying or to influence government policy. Checkoff-funded promotions are designed to increase domestic pork sales through consumer, retail and food service outreach. Additionally, Checkoff-funded research is administered in all areas of pork production, processing and human nutrition to develop a higher quality, more profitable and innovative product in the competitive meat protein market. 

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Weston Spect- PLI 2025

Weston Spect, has recently been selected to join the 2025 class for the Pork Leadership Institute (PLI). Weston grew up on a small horse farm in Somerset, Pennsylvania, where he developed a passion for agriculture through 4-H, FFA, and raising fair pigs. He attended Pennsylvania State University, earning a degree in Animal Science with a minor in Equine Science.

After graduation, Weston began his career in feed sales before joining Country View Family Farms. Over the past two years, he has advanced through their Manager Trainee Program and is now the Farrowing Lead at a 5,500-head Prop 12-compliant farm.

Weston credits mentors at Country View Family Farms, for fostering his growth, stating, “The knowledge and support from my colleagues have been invaluable. I’ve been fortunate to learn from a team that prioritizes continuous improvement and innovative problem-solving.”

“I’m incredibly honored and excited to have been selected for PLI,” Spect shared. “The program offers a unique opportunity to meet industry professionals from across the country, exchange ideas, and gain new perspectives that I can bring back to my farm and community.”

As Weston embarks on this journey, he reflects on his growing passion for pork production. “I never imagined how rewarding this industry could be. It’s incredible to walk into a grocery store and see a product you’ve worked hard to produce on the shelf. I encourage young adults to step out of their comfort zones and explore a career in the pork industry—it’s a truly fulfilling experience.”