In recognition of October as National Pork Month, a time of year to recognize the significant contributions of pork production, Zoetis is proud to celebrate everyday heroes who embody a passion for farming and a commitment to the industry’s future. This year, through its Champions of Care initiative, Zoetis is honoring individuals who exemplify everything that is good about the pork industry.
“A pig farm is only as healthy as its animals. It’s the people who make the difference,” said Wes Lack, National Sales Director, Zoetis Pork. “Every day, we see the spirit of caregiving by those who put their passion into practice. It speaks to everything that is right about American agriculture and what Champions of Care highlights.”
One such champion is Jim Coakley, swine herd manager at Oklahoma State University’s Swine Education and Research Center. Coakley is not only responsible for overseeing animal care of the school’s swine farm unit, but he is also nurturing the next generation of leaders. His story is the focus of a new Champions of Care video that highlights how hands-on education and mentorship are creating opportunities to attract students to agricultural careers.
“Through caring for the university swine herd, our students have the opportunity to learn solid work ethics and good morals,” Coakley said, emphasizing the power of teaching and nurturing individual potential, even those who are experiencing agriculture for the first time. “My biggest goal is to see students graduate with a degree and land a job that benefits agriculture.”
Coakley’s ties to agriculture — raised on his family’s farm in Hobart, Oklahoma — and lessons from his parents inspired his passion for agriculture and commitment to teaching. Whether he’s mentoring students, managing swine health or teaching a young farm employee about caring for animals, Coakley brings heart and humility to everything he does.
“Animal health is the most important. We have to provide a level of defense for combating diseases and be committed to providing a safe, high-quality product raised as efficiently as possible,” said Coakley whose curriculum teaches students how to evaluate health by looking at their eyes, ears, skin and behavior.
“Jim goes out of his way to help kids learn animal husbandry skills and opens doors to an industry many wouldn’t have otherwise considered,” said McKenzie Squires, a strategic account manager for Zoetis, who works closely with Coakley. His students regularly graduate inspired, informed and ready to make their own contributions to agriculture, she explained.
This National Pork Month, Zoetis is proud to share Coakley’s story and those of others who work behind the scenes to support pig health, care for people and strengthen the pork industry for generations to come.
Watch Jim Coakley’s story and learn about other Champions of Care at Pig Health Monthly Pig Health Monthly.
