COLUMBIA, MO. — College students interested in gaining hands-on experience in the pork industry have an opportunity to build their professional skills through the Missouri Pork Association‘s (MPA) 2027 internship program. Applications are now being accepted for spring, summer and fall internships, offering students the chance to work alongside industry professionals while learning more about pork production, agricultural communications, leadership and event planning.
The Missouri Pork Association will select one college student for a full-time summer internship at its Columbia, Missouri, office from mid-May through mid-August 2027. Part-time internship opportunities are also available during the spring semester, January through mid-May, and the fall semester, mid-August through December.
Designed to introduce students to the many opportunities available within the pork industry, the internship program provides valuable experience in producer education, youth development, membership programs, communications and agricultural event management. Interns will work directly with MPA staff to help coordinate programs and events that support Missouri pork producers and promote the state’s pork industry.
Internship responsibilities vary depending on the semester. Spring interns will assist with the Missouri Pork Expo, including managing live and silent auctions, supporting In the Show Ring activities and helping organize the Missouri Pork Classic Golf Tournament.
During the summer, interns will have opportunities to attend Missouri Youth Show Pig Circuit jackpot shows, coordinate fundraising activities, manage events such as the Swine Health Symposium and Missouri Pork Classic Golf Tournament, and participate in Missouri State Fair activities. These experiences provide students with opportunities to connect with pork producers, industry leaders and agricultural organizations throughout the state.
Fall interns will focus on membership outreach, educational programming and communications projects, including the annual Missouri PorkToday magazine. They will also assist with planning the Swine Institute, the 2027 Missouri Youth Show Pig Circuit and the FFA Pork Speaking Contest.
To qualify, applicants must have completed at least two years, or four semesters, of college coursework. The Missouri Pork Association offers compensation competitive with similar internship programs, and applicants must submit three letters of recommendation with their application.
The application deadline is November 6, 2026.
Students interested in careers in agriculture, agricultural communications, livestock production, marketing or industry leadership are encouraged to explore this opportunity to gain professional experience and build relationships within Missouri’s pork industry.
For additional information and application details, visit the Missouri Pork Association Internship Program.
Students may also contact Diane Slater, MPA director of communications, at (573) 445-8375 or diane@mopork.com.
The Missouri Pork Association represents the state’s pork producers through promotion, research, education and public policy initiatives. Learn more at www.mopork.com.
