OAKWOOD, OHIO — During the 2023 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE), four Cooper Farms employees were selected to participate in the 11th annual Young Leaders Under 30 program.

Partially sponsored by the US Poultry & Egg Association, the three-day program recognized young professionals in the poultry or petfood industry.

“This year marks our company’s 85th anniversary and supporting the development of our industry’s young leaders is key to ensuring our family’s business will continue to thrive for decades to come,” said Gary Cooper, chief operating officer of Cooper Farms. “Our four team members selected to participate in this prestigious program are worthy of the honor, and we’re pleased they were provided this unique opportunity to strengthen their leadership skills while expanding their knowledge of our growing industry.”

Representing Cooper Farms at the program were Arlyn Cooper, Joelle Hemmelgarn, Nick Link and Nick Mansfield. Each program participant received a plaque recognizing their acceptance into the program as well as complimentary registration to IPPE.

“Receiving this recognition is a great honor, and we’re all thankful to have been given the opportunity to deepen our understanding of the industry,” Arlyn Cooper said. “We look forward to applying what we’ve learned at IPPE to our work and continuing to become stronger leaders for our company in the process.”

Founded in 1938, Cooper Farms raises turkeys, hogs and chicken egg layers. The company currently produces fully cooked and ready-to-cook turkey, ham and chicken products, as well as eggs.