Registration Open for 11th Annual Young Leaders in Agriculture Conference in Minnesota
The Minnesota Pork Board and Compeer Financial have officially opened registration for the 11th Annual Young Leaders in Agriculture Conference (YLAC), a free leadership development event designed for young adults ages 18-22 interested in agriculture and leadership opportunities.
The conference will take place June 15-17, 2026, at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center in Mankato, Minnesota. Organizers say the event will bring together young agricultural leaders from across the state for three days focused on leadership development, networking, career exploration, and personal growth.
This year’s YLAC lineup includes several featured speakers and hands-on experiences aimed at helping attendees strengthen communication and leadership skills both inside and outside of agriculture.
Participants will hear from Rachel Eslick on building confidence and leading with intention, leadership coach Vanessa McNeal on relationships and influence, and motivational speaker Hunter Pinke on resilience and overcoming adversity.
Attendees will also participate in sessions covering leadership, advocacy, communication, self-awareness, critical thinking, and career readiness. Additional activities include networking with agriculture professionals, social events, and a service project benefiting Ronald McDonald House Upper Midwest.
A pork fabrication workshop will also be part of the conference schedule, led by industry experts Neal Hull and Lindsey Fulton.
“Developing the next generation of agricultural leaders is one of the most important investments we can make as an industry,” said Jill Resler, chief executive officer of Minnesota Pork. “The Young Leaders in Agriculture Conference provides opportunities for attendees to strengthen leadership and communication skills, develop relationships, think critically, and explore meaningful pathways within agriculture.”
There is no cost to attend the conference. Registration is open now through Friday, June 5, 2026.