Group Photo at Shaffer’s Goldrush during the 2007 NYLC.
In 2007, I had the opportunity to attend my first National Youth Leadership Conference (NYLC) in Indianapolis, Indiana. This was the first of many leadership conferences I remember attending, and I had a blast! Last year was my first NYLC since I was a participant eight years ago, and I absolutely loved it. When pigs are taken out of the equation, participants have the chance to really get to know other NJSA members from around the country.
When I put together the schedule I try to include sessions and tours I think will be most beneficial to all participants, which is why I am EXTREMELY excited for the 2015 NYLC in Fort Collins, Colorado! Whether we are touring the JBS USA Headquarters and JBS Five Rivers Kuner Feedlot, having basketball and dodgeball tournaments at one of the top 20 Co-Rec’s in the U.S., enjoying an educational etiquette dinner or listening to any of the wonderful speakers that I have lined up, I think we have something to offer everyone!
If you don’t want to take my word for it that NYLC is an amazing experience, take a look below at some testimonials from past participants.
“In the last four years, I have attended two NYLCs, one at Oklahoma State and one at Purdue. In both instances, I don’t think I’ve taken away more industry knowledge and life lessons then I did then! To visit those colleges and talk with professors and industry leaders not only helped me understand more about the swine industry, but what I wanted to do later in life. Not only that, but the personal experiences shared by those very same industry leaders did more than just hit home. They changed how I view different things in my life. For a young person looking to learn, lead and gain different outlooks on life, NYLC is a must for you!”
-Brandon Stickler, Pleasant Plains, Illinois, Current NJSA Member
“NYLC has always been one of my favorite events offered by the NJSA. You are able to meet other kids your age who share the same passions and interests you have. There are industry speakers, tours, breakout sessions, games and always lots of laughs! The friendships that are built during the conference really do last! After attending my first NYLC, I remember going to the WPX and having a blast. I had so many friends from other states and parts of the country I could not wait to see and catch up with. I attended four NYLCs as an NJSA member. It was so much fun traveling to different parts of the country and seeing how they raise pigs and other agricultural products in their region. The only thing I wish is that I would have started going to the NYLC when I was first able to!”
-Aimee Inskeep (Shaffer), Farmland, Indiana, Past Junior Board of Directors member and Current Youth Advisory Board Member
For more detailed information on what to expect, click HERE.
If you are nervous about traveling on your own, don’t let that keep you from coming and having a great time. We promise to get you safely from the airport to the Hilton in Fort Collins and back. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to call me at 765-463-3549 ext. 109 or email me at kaley@nationalswine.com.