Value of State Processor Associations & Conventions
Belonging to your state’s meat processors association (or a nearby state if your state does not have an association) is a great way to increase your knowledge about the industry, gain insight into new technologies, and have a network of colleagues at your fingertips to help brainstorm whatever issues come your way.
So why should I take the time to attend the state convention?
Look at it this way…hopefully you take time to take care of yourself by going to the doctor or dentist. You take time to get your car’s oil changed. Why would you NOT take time to take care of your business?! A typical state convention is a weekend event. During that time, you have opportunities to attend educational workshops, network with other processors, attend a trade show that has several supplier members showing off everything you would ever need as a meat processor, and participate in a cured meats product show. Several states offer this and more, just depending on the size of the association.
What type of educational sessions are offered?
This depends on the state. Topics could be anything from the very basics of slaughter to further processing to employee relations and succession planning. Many times, representatives from your state Department of Agriculture, Conservation, Farm Bureau, Pork Association, and Beef Industry Council participate as well, either in the sessions or at the trade show. The board and executive director do their best to ensure there are educational sessions that apply to all aspects of meat processing.
And there’s a trade show?
YES! Again, this depends on the size of your state, but this is a great time to visit with suppliers that you currently work with and find suppliers that offer a product or service you might be looking for (or didn’t know you needed!).
I don’t understand how the processors can network but yet we are all competitors…
This question comes up occasionally and makes sense until you attend the convention. While you’re technically competitors, you’re spread out across the state. You won’t exchange trade secrets, like your smokehouse schedule, but you’ll help each other out when needed. The goal is to provide great products and services, and networking helps everyone achieve that.
What does it cost?
That depends on the state too. For example, in Missouri, membership dues are $125 annually. You must be a member to attend the convention. Processors have a convention registration fee (this is waived if you are a new member for the first time). Missouri also provides several meals. All states usually have a block of hotel rooms with a special rate for participants.
I strongly encourage you to join your state association and attend your convention this year (see convention list). Your association is strong when the members participate and what better way than to take some time to attend the event? It is hard to get away from your business. There are a million things that can go wrong when you are gone, but you will not regret investing in YOU and your business by attending your state show.
Niki Cloud
Convention Manager – American Association of Meat Processors (AAMP)
Executive Director – Missouri Association of Meat Processors (MAMP)
