Members of NMPF member cooperatives are invited to attend a seminar hosted by the National Young Cooperators (YC) Program on Thursday, Oct. 2. See below for schedule and speaker information
8:00 – 8:30 a.m. Breakfast and Coffee
Mendota 2 Room, located in the Exhibition Hall World Dairy Expo Alliant Energy Center
8:30 – 10:00 a.m. Progressive Farmer Panel: Innovation, Strategy and the Future of Dairy Farming
Mendota 2 Room, located in the Exhibition Hall World Dairy Expo Alliant Energy Center
Join NMPF’s National YC Program for a panel discussion featuring leading dairy farmers as they share how they’re confronting today’s challenges and positioning their farms for long-term success. From business development and on-farm innovation to sustainability, workforce strategy and emerging market opportunities, these forward-thinking producers will offer a candid look at how they manage risk, pursue growth and build resilience in an ever-changing industry. Gain valuable insight into what drives these progressive farmers—how they spend their time, where they focus their efforts, the philosophies behind their decisions and how they’re shaping the future for their farms, families and communities.
About the Speakers
The session will be moderated by Farm Journal’s Karen Bohnert.
Joel Eigenbrood has more than 20 years of experience in dairy farm accounting and advisory services. Since 2016, he has served as the on-farm, full-time Chief Financial Officer for Mibelloon Dairy, Wheeler Dairy, Van Loon Farms, Redstone Dairy, Lemola Dairy, Mibelloon Investments and Marloo Equipment. In 2024, Joel was elected chairman of Foremost Farms USA, where he previously served as First Vice Chair. He also serves on NMPF’s executive committee and on the board of the United Dairy Industry of Michigan.
Dr. Megan Schrupp is co-owner of NexGen Dairy, a third-generation family farm in Eden Valley, Minnesota. NexGen Dairy milks 1,200 Jersey and Jersey-cross cows, producing high-component milk for cheddar cheese at First District Association. The farm raises all its heifer replacements, manages 1,400 acres of cropland and utilizes solar power systems to partially offset its energy needs. A practicing dairy veterinarian, Megan works closely with her team to integrate advanced technologies and research that optimize cow health, comfort and performance. Alongside her husband, Tim, Megan serves as the chairperson of the National YC Program.
Rodney Fowler is a first-generation dairy farmer and member-owner of Michigan Milk Producers Association. He operates a dairy in Chesaning, Michigan, alongside his brother and son. What began with a single heifer just before Rodney’s 15th birthday has grown into a family business supporting three households and 200 cows. To address labor challenges, the Fowlers installed robotic milkers more than a decade ago, transforming their stanchion barn into a labor-saving, cow-friendly system. They manage over 500 acres with a focus on nutrient management and sustainability, continuously seeking new ways to improve efficiency, animal care and long-term viability.
Laura Raatz is a fifth-generation co-owner and herd manager at Wagner Farms Inc., a Land O’Lakes member cooperative in Cecil, Wisconsin. She oversees calf and young stock care while helping to carry forward the farm’s long-standing values of family, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship. Wagner Farms prioritizes sustainable practices to protect natural resources, maintain herd health, and ensure the long-term success of both the business and community. Guided by the motto People. Animals. Environment., Laura emphasizes that caring for their animals is not just a priority but a foundation for everything they do.
There is no cost to attend this or other NMPF-affiliated events at World Dairy Expo; however, admission tickets are required to access the World Dairy Expo grounds. Passes can be purchased online or onsite.
