Pennsylvania’s pig farmers have a long standing tradition of commitment and caring, for the animals we raise, the people we work with, the land we tend and the communities we call home, just down the road from neighbors like you. And we stand for the values our farms are built on, right down to our roots, including these six ethical principles that guide us to make a positive impact beyond our barn doors:
Did you Know?
PA Pork offers an Emerging Leaders Program designed to foster growth and leadership skills among young adults in the swine industry. Throughout the year, participants engage in industry tours, learn about legislation, and meet a variety of leaders from across the state. In 2025, we are excited to welcome six leaders into the program and cannot wait to see what they accomplish following their year in the Emerging Leaders Program.#agfacts
Emerging Leaders Content
Melissa is the Animal Care & Compliance Programs Manager at Clemens Food Group. She applied for the Emerging Leaders Program to gain a deeper understanding of the legislative aspects of the pork industry and expand her professional network in Pennsylvania.
With a strong passion for animal welfare, Melissa envisions herself continuing in a leadership role over the next five years, further advancing her career in animal care and compliance.
Inspired by motherhood, Melissa is driven to grow her career so she can one day share her passion for animal agriculture and the pork industry with her daughter. Her advice to young professionals is to explore the many career opportunities within the pork industry, keep an open mind, and take advantage of every opportunity that comes their way.
When it comes to enjoying pork, her favorite dish is fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs slow-cooked with BBQ sauce and cherry jam preserves—served over noodles or rice for a flavorful meal.
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Emerging Leaders
Johanna (Jo) Swoyer is the Animal Care Educator-PA at Clemens Food Group. She applied for the Emerging Leaders Program to deepen her knowledge of the pork industry, gain insights into the full supply chain from farm to table, and strengthen her leadership skills. Growing up as a city kid with limited exposure to agriculture, Jo sees this program as a valuable opportunity to inspire others and expand her professional connections within the industry.
Nine years ago, Jo unexpectedly found herself in the pork industry—an industry she had never imagined joining. Over the next five years, she plans to stay actively involved, helping others pursue their passions while driving innovation and improvement. Throughout her career, she has been inspired by many individuals, including her first mentor, Dewey, who sparked her enthusiasm for learning. Today, she is motivated by her team of exceptional young women who challenge her thinking, push her skills, and keep her focused on her goals.
Jo’s advice to young professionals is to embrace the challenges and rewards of the pork industry with a positive mindset. She encourages others to find what excites them, stay curious, and take advantage of the many opportunities for growth and development—regardless of their background or experience.
When it comes to enjoying pork, Jo keeps it simple—bacon is her favorite, but she also loves the classic comfort of pork and sauerkraut.
Emerging Leaders Content
Melissa is the Animal Care & Compliance Programs Manager at Clemens Food Group. She applied for the Emerging Leaders Program to gain a deeper understanding of the legislative aspects of the pork industry and expand her professional network in Pennsylvania.
With a strong passion for animal welfare, Melissa envisions herself continuing in a leadership role over the next five years, further advancing her career in animal care and compliance.
Inspired by motherhood, Melissa is driven to grow her career so she can one day share her passion for animal agriculture and the pork industry with her daughter. Her advice to young professionals is to explore the many career opportunities within the pork industry, keep an open mind, and take advantage of every opportunity that comes their way.
When it comes to enjoying pork, her favorite dish is fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs slow-cooked with BBQ sauce and cherry jam preserves—served over noodles or rice for a flavorful meal.