By Blake Jackson
Over 200 dairy producers and industry professionals convened in East Syracuse, NY, on January 28th and 29th for the biennial dairy conference.
This collaborative event, organized by Cornell CALS PRO-DAIRY and the Northeast Dairy Producers Association (NEDPA), brought together farm managers to explore key strategies for successful dairy farm management while fostering valuable connections within the industry.
Attendees, representing dairy farms, industry advisors, suppliers, and university professionals, gained valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the dairy industry.
“With a focus on continuous improvement and ensuring tasks are executed effectively each day, the conference provided an engaging platform for dairy managers and allied industry professionals,” said Jason Karszes, PRO-DAIRY Farm Business Management Specialist and Conference Chair. “The diverse group of speakers delivered actionable insights, and the networking opportunities fostered meaningful connections among participants and presenters alike.”
The conference theme, "Empowering Managers: Embracing Diversity, Consistency, and Attitude for Success," served as a guiding principle. Keynote presentations focused on inspiring self-improvement and professional growth, while specialized breakout sessions provided in-depth training on critical aspects of dairy production, including crop management, human resources, and business operations.
Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, the conference introduced simultaneous Spanish translation during general sessions and offered dedicated Spanish-language breakout sessions. This initiative was met with positive feedback, demonstrating the conference's commitment to serving all dairy industry professionals.
“These conferences underscore the critical role of investing in the development of our farm staff and employees,” said Tonya Van Slyke, NEDPA Executive Vice President of Industry Relations. “As the future leaders of our industry, their dedication to enhancing farm productivity, fostering inclusive and diverse teams, and driving innovation in the face of challenges is both commendable and inspiring.”
The next Operations Managers Conference is scheduled for January 2027.
Photo Credit: istock-fangxianuo
Categories: New York, Business