Education opportunities at IPPE 2024

Writing New Crop every month has made me realize something members of the feed industry probably already know -- finding education opportunities in the feed manufacturing industry can be a challenge. That's part of the appeal of industry trade shows, where members of the industry can pack in a significant amount of education opportunities in a small period of time. The International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) is the industry's largest trade show and renowned for its commitment to providing cutting-edge education and training opportunities to professionals in the animal feed industry. This year's education lineup has me excited, with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and regulatory compliance. IPPE 2024 aims to equip attendees with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the evolving landscape of feed manufacturing. Below I'll go over why I'm excited about this Expo, highlight the key topics, expert speakers, and valuable insights that await industry professionals. So, let's dive into the world of education opportunities at IPPE 2024 and unlock the future of the animal feed industry.

1. The Feed Mill of the Future Conference

I'll admit I am a little biased with this choice. The Feed Mill of the Future Conference is being presented by Feed Strategy and Feed & Grain organized in collaboration with the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA). This conference, held as part of IPPE 2024 as a paid registration option, brings together leading experts to explore emerging technologies and processes that will shape the future of animal feed manufacturing. With a focus on sustainability, productivity and profitability, the conference aims to provide attendees with valuable insights into the power of innovation and early adoption in achieving their goals.

The keynote speaker, Milan Hruby, the vice president of Creation Design and Development at ADM Animal Nutrition, will unravel the strategies, technologies and efforts driving ADM closer to achieving its environmental goals. His presentation will delve into the concept of Scope 3 Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) in feed production, exploring how ADM addresses emissions across the supply chain and fosters collaboration to minimize the carbon footprint. Attendees can expect to gain insights into sourcing strategies, feed formulations, processing techniques, and sustainable practices that harmonize profitability with environmental responsibility.

Another presentation worth noting is "Save your energy: A manufacturer’s guide to energy efficiency," presented by Jerry Plessing, a global industry consultant at Rockwell Automation. This session will provide strategies to boost energy efficiency and increase profitability through smart manufacturing, which delivers real-time information for improved operations, productivity, and risk mitigation. With labor shortages posing challenges to the feed industry, investing in Industry 4.0 and enterprise connectedness can pave the way for significant returns in the long run.

Thierry Duvanel's, the director of Innovation at Bühler Group, session will explore the potential of insects as a sustainable protein source and shed light on the challenges and opportunities associated with their large-scale production. As the demand for protein continues to rise, exploring innovative solutions like insect meal can revolutionize the animal feed industry and contribute to a more sustainable future.

        2. New Product Showcase

The New Product Showcase at IPPE 2024 is a must-visit for industry professionals seeking the latest advancements in protein and feed technology. With 36 innovative products and services on display, this exhibition provides a platform for exhibitors to showcase their cutting-edge solutions. The showcase will feature products and services in three categories: animal food, processing, and live production. Attendees can explore the exhibits and witness firsthand the innovative technologies that are shaping the future of the animal feed industry.

        3. TECHTalks

TECHTalks, a series of free 20-minute technical presentations, offer attendees the opportunity to gain valuable insights from industry experts. With 97 presentations scheduled throughout IPPE 2024, professionals can explore a wide range of topics, including food safety, animal welfare, sustainability and feed production. Led by exhibitors at IPPE, these presentations provide a platform for sharing expertise and experiences, empowering attendees with practical knowledge and actionable strategies for their businesses. Here are a few you may find me attending:

• Multi-Site Monitoring of Bulk Materials
• A Strategic, ‘Inside Out’ Approach to Mycotoxin Threats
• Fat-Soluble Vitamins in Animal Nutrition: Essential Functions and New Trends
• Hazardous Monitoring – Annual Audit for a Safe Facility
• Expander for Pelleting or Ingredient Processing
• The Environmental Footprint of Feed: Can We Reduce It with Ingredient Decisions?
• Charting the Course: Navigating Washington DC for the Animal Food Industry During the 2024 election
  
  

        4. AFIA feed education program

The AFIA recognizes the importance of keeping industry stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that impact the animal food industry. To address this need, AFIA offers the Feed Education Program as part of IPPE 2024. This educational symposium aims to update attendees on recent changes to animal food regulations and provide insights into how these changes may affect their businesses in 2024. With a focus on regulatory compliance, the program equips animal food facility managers, operations personnel, and mill personnel with the necessary knowledge to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape.

The AFIA Feed Facility of the Year Award is a prestigious recognition that celebrates excellence in feed production. This award highlights the commitment of industry professionals to quality, innovation, and best practices. At IPPE 2024, the winner of the Feed Facility of the Year Award in the commercial feed category will be announced, showcasing the industry's dedication to producing high-quality feed and driving advancements in the animal feed sector.

        5. Networking opportunities

In addition to the educational programs and symposiums, IPPE 2024 provides ample opportunities for networking and engaging with industry experts. The event brings together over 1,400 exhibitors, representing the entire chain of protein production and processing. Attendees can connect with industry leaders, explore new business partnerships, and gain valuable insights from experts in the field. The networking sessions at IPPE 2024 offer a platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and fostering meaningful relationships within the animal feed industry.

IPPE 2024 offers unparalleled education and training opportunities for professionals in the animal feed industry. From the Feed Mill of the Future Conference to TECHTalks, attendees can immerse themselves in the latest advancements, industry trends, and regulatory updates. By embracing these education opportunities, industry professionals can stay ahead of the curve, unlock new possibilities, and drive sustainable growth in the animal feed sector. So, mark your calendars for January 30 - February 1, register for IPPE 2024, and join me in Atlanta on the journey to towards a brighter future for the animal feed industry.