Iowa Pork Producers Association Welcomes New Producer Education Director Jesi Strohbehn

The Iowa Pork Producers Association has named Jesi Strohbehn as its new Producer Education Director. Strohbehn officially began her role in April and will focus on supporting Iowa pork producers through education, outreach, and industry collaboration.

In her new position, Strohbehn will help develop educational materials for Iowa pig farmers, administer pork quality improvement programs, and work alongside organizations including Iowa Farm Animal Care and the Iowa Pork Industry Center. She will also work directly with pork producers by providing resources and support related to swine health, research, innovation, and pork production practices.

Strohbehn most recently worked as an Agriculture Compliance Investigator for the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship organic program. In that role, she conducted organic inspections for livestock operations, crop producers, and processing facilities across Iowa agriculture.

Before joining the department, she worked for Zoetis as an Area Application Specialist with the Improvest team. Her work included providing on-farm implementation expertise throughout the Midwest while gaining hands-on experience in swine health and pork production systems.

“With her industry experience and rural Iowa roots, Jesi has a strong understanding of the producers we represent,” said Pat McGonegle, CEO of the Iowa Pork Producers Association. “She will be a great asset to our producer outreach efforts.”

Originally from Winthrop, Iowa, Strohbehn said her agricultural background and experience in the swine industry helped shape her passion for supporting pork producers and advancing the pork industry.

“I’m excited to meet Iowa’s pork producers and to be back working in the swine industry full time,” Strohbehn said. “This role offers a great opportunity to learn and experience a wide range of areas, from swine health to innovative research. I’m especially excited to work alongside people who are passionate about continuing to improve pork production.”