By Maggie Edwards
(334) 613-4198

Walker County’s Daniel Tubbs was recently selected for the Pork Leadership Institute (PLI). 

“It’s a great honor to be a member of this class and to represent Alabama on a national stage,” said Tubbs, the Alabama Farmers Federation State Pork Committee chair. “I am ready to gain more industry experience.”

After analyzing numerous applications, the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) and the National Pork Board (NPB) identified 19 pork producers from across the nation to join the prestigious group’s 2024 class.

“I compare this institute to the Federation’s Agricultural Leaders for Alabama (A.L.F.A. Leaders) program,” said Tubbs, a member of Class IV. “A.L.F.A. Leaders expanded my horizon and allowed me to meet so many people across the state. I have the same hope for this new opportunity.”

PLI is instrumental in shaping the success of pork producers by cultivating knowledgeable industry ambassadors and future leaders, said NPPC CEO Bryan Humphreys.

“Participation in PLI is not just an opportunity; it’s a strategic imperative,” Humpreys said. “Its graduates are empowered to articulate the compelling narrative of the pork industry — from local communities all the way to the heart of our nation’s capital.”

The extensive, one-year program kicks off mid-January in Des Moines, Iowa, where Tubbs expects to develop deeper understanding of NPPC and NPB.  

Washington, D.C., Chicago, and an international trip are on the schedule, too. The class’s five sessions are set to teach the importance of global trade and help the group better understand challenges producers face. Tubbs will also spend time undergoing communication and advocacy training. 

Session takeaways will help Tubbs back on his farm, which includes 20 sows farrow to finish. He supplies pork to local markets for consumers. Additionally, Tubbs works off-farm traveling the country performing animal welfare audits. 

Federation Pork Division Director Colton Christjohn praised Tubbs for this accomplishment. 

“It’s incredible to see a pig farmer from Alabama go this far,” said Christjohn, noting the small number of pork producers in the state. “His service as a Pork Act delegate and involvement in the Pork Checkoff makes him a great fit for this class. Daniel is a great representative for us.”  

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