Program Benefits

Emerging Leaders Program

Mentorship Program

Participants will be partnered with an industry mentor to help guide them throughout the year. The mentors provide guidance and support to an Emerging Leader based on their unique developmental needs and share experiences they’ve learned from.

If you are interested in mentoring, please email Megan McCullough

The Farm to Fork Tour

Gain essential insight across the entire meat supply chain.

This tour equips industry leaders with the knowledge to foster stronger, more collaborative partnerships through a full-chain view from production to consumption.

  • Deepens supply chain understanding
  • Fosters strong industry partnerships
  • Highlights ethical and transparent practices
  • Drives cross-sector collaboration

The Washington Experience

Develop leadership where policy meets industry.

Join a premier D.C.-based immersion to empower emerging meat industry leaders through hands-on, high-impact experiences.

  • George Washington Leadership Institute sessions
  • Strengthen communication and media engagement skills
  • Advocate on Capitol Hill
  • Lead with confidence & clarity

Virtual Training and Workshops

Various trainings.

Interactive leadership training and hands-on sessions in:

  • Media Training
  • Crisis Communications
  • Project Management
  • Financial Management
  • Public Speaking
  • Leadership Presence
  • and more…

Events and Industry Education

Participants will receive complimentary registration for the annual Meat Institute operational conferences, the Meat Institute Solutions Summit, the Annual Meat Conference, and Meat Institute hosted webinars. Special programming is arranged during some of these events especially for members of the Meat Institute Emerging Leaders Program.
 

Testimonials

“The Emerging Leaders Program is an invaluable experience... I’ve stayed connected with my cohort and industry events ever since.”

MEREDITH HEALAN, FPL FOOD, CLASS OF 2023

“What makes the Emerging Leaders Program special is the people. You connect with peers navigating similar career stages, gain new perspectives, and build lasting relationships--I still keep in touch with people I met through the program.”

RAVEN KROPF, TEYS USA, CLASS OF 2024

“This program sharpened my leadership and helped expand my network across the industry.”

MATT THOMAS, TYSON FOODS, CLASS OF 2025