By Blake Jackson
The Professional Dairy Producers® (PDP) presents the 2024 Business Conference, recognized as dairy's premier educational event. Scheduled for March 13-14, 2024, at Wisconsin Dells' Kalahari Resorts, this two-day conference provides an invaluable opportunity for dairy industry professionals to gain insights from leading experts and peers.
With 54 learning sessions divided into four categories, attendees can tailor their experience to focus on animal care and food safety, business and financial acumen, human resources, management skills, next generation, and transition, as well as social license, covering sustainability, policy, and consumer trust. Janet Clark, dairy producer and vice president of PDP board of directors, emphasizes the importance of staying updated on the latest research and management protocols, noting that the Business Conference facilitates learning from colleagues and building lasting connections within the dairy community.
The conference offers a diverse range of learning sessions, catering to various learning styles through hands-on programs, panel discussions, breakout sessions, and specialty sessions. Topics include nutrition and feed management, raising calves and heifers, sustainability and environmental management, and business leadership skills.
General sessions during the conference will feature insights on critical topics in the dairy industry. A panel of dairy producers will discuss driving innovation in environmental sustainability, while Jacob Shapiro will identify geopolitical trends impacting agriculture. Opening speaker Brent Gleeson, a Navy SEAL combat veteran, will share experiences in navigating change with resilience and passion. Bruce Vincent will conclude the conference, discussing the importance of sharing information with consumers for the dairy industry's social license.
Additionally, attendees can explore upcoming industry advancements at the Preview Stage and Nexus Stage, showcasing university research and innovations from five industry companies. The Hall of Ideas trade and equipment show provides opportunities for networking with dairy producers, industry leaders, and vendors, offering entertainment, refreshments, and amenities.
Continuing-education units are available for select sessions through Dairy AdvanCE (DACE), American Registry of Professional Scientists (ARPAS), and Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) Program, enhancing the educational value of the conference. The 2024 Business Conference promises to be an enriching experience for professionals invested in the success of the dairy industry.
Photo Credit: istock-fangxianuo
Categories: Wisconsin, Business