The 2026 Penn Ag Expo brought together more than 600 producers and agriculture professionals on April 2 for a full day of education, networking, and collaboration across Pennsylvania’s ag industry. As part of the event, the Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council (PPPC) hosted the Keystone Pork Expo sessions, delivering timely insights and updates for pork producers across the state.
Neal Hull speaks at Keystone Pork Expo
The keynote sessions kicked off with Dr. Melissa Billings of Boehringer Ingelheim, who shared the latest advancements in animal health impacting pork production. Dr. Meghann Pierdon of Penn Vet followed with a detailed look at GIS technology and swine health, highlighting emerging data trends shaping herd management decisions.
Courtney Gray, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council, reviewed the organization’s work over the past year, including efforts tied to the National Pork Board campaign, “Taste What Pork Can Do.” Neal Hull of the National Pork Board expanded on the campaign’s success, noting increased pork sales and improved consumer perception nationwide. Mykenzie Darg of the National Pork Producers Council closed the morning session with updates on policy priorities and industry challenges, while also sharing her experience in the Pork Industry Immersion Program—a multi-phase initiative providing hands-on experience across national and state pork organizations.
Throughout the day, attendees explored the trade show floor, connecting with industry partners, discovering new technologies, and strengthening relationships within the pork community.
“The Keystone Pork Expo remains an essential event for Pennsylvania pork producers, providing new connections and keeping them up to date on the work being done across the state and nation,” said Gray. “We are grateful for the speakers and participants who continue to invest in the future of Pennsylvania pork production each year.”
The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council represents nearly 3,000 pig farmers across the state and administers Pork Checkoff programs focused on promotion, research, and education—helping drive demand, innovation, and profitability within the pork industry.