Meet the Staff
NSR Chief Executive Officer, Clay Zwilling
How many years have you worked for the NSR?
Three
What is your favorite aspect of your role with the NSR?
Working with our membership to navigate and overcome industry challenges and to enhance the goals of their operations.
What is one thing you wish members knew about your job?
Every day is different, and making challenging decisions can be difficult, but we are here to represent the membership. If members ever have questions, ideas, or concerns, they should feel comfortable reaching out to the staff and myself. It is always better to have accurate information and perspectives. And we are here to listen.
What is your favorite NSR memory?
Last year was the first year we did a “retiring ceremony” for the Junior Board. The staff took total ownership in the making it special and watching the Junior Board retire and seeing the young NJSA members in the crowd watch was very special. Also being a part of three record-breaking animals has been exciting.
What was your involvement in the swine industry before your time with the NSR?
Growing up showing at the local and state levels and NJSA, helping other breeders manage their sow herds, interning at The Maschhoffs, collegiate judging and judging swine shows.
Please list your spouse and children (fur children included).
Wife- Deanna and our dog, Bo
Where did you go to college and what was your major?
Lake Land College- Agriculture Transfer
Oklahoma State University – Double Major Animal Science/Agricultural Education
Texas A&M University- Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communications
What do you enjoy doing outside of the office?
Traveling, eating at new restaurants, attending college football games, assisting with collegiate judging contests and judging cattle shows (when there is time!)
Where is your favorite place to visit or where is your dream vacation?
I would love to go to Australia.
If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life what would it be?
Pizza
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I showed at the very first Junior Crossbred Gilt Show at the World Pork Expo. I got 9th out of 9 and we showed in the sheep barn in Des Moines. I also have been hypnotized five times.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
It’s an honor to represent and serve the members of the purebred swine industry.
