Learning to Leading:The Value of Internships

In this episode of the SwineTime podcast, host and veterinarian Dr. Spencer Wayne sits down with fellow veterinarian, Dr. Rachel Stika-Jensen and veterinary intern, Emma Zwart, to take a closer look at what it’s really like to participate in a veterinary internship within the swine industry. Together, they share practical insights for students, parents, swine veterinarians, and pig producers who want to better understand the value of hands-on training in pig health and production.

The conversation begins with what drew them to the ag industry, specifically swine medicine. Emma explains how her internships helped bridge the gap between veterinary school and working directly with pigs, allowing her to build confidence in diagnosing herd health issues, understanding biosecurity protocols, and learning the day-to-day realities of swine practice. Dr. Stika-Jensen offers her perspective as both a practicing swine veterinarian and a mentor, highlighting how internships give future veterinarians a realistic view of what a career in pig medicine entails.

Beyond veterinary internships, the episode also explores other opportunities Pipestone offers for students interested in the swine industry. These include roles working alongside swine nutritionists to optimize pig feed programs, positions in production management to understand large-scale pig herd operations, and internships in research focused on pig health innovations. There are also opportunities in marketing, IT, and data analytics—fields that support the business side of swine production. By training and building the industry’s talent today, Pipestone ensures that farmers will benefit from skilled, knowledgeable professionals who drive innovation and sustainability for the future of pig production.

Listeners will gain practical tips on how to find high-quality swine internships, key questions to ask before applying, and strategies for making the most of these valuable experiences. Offering internships is essential for swine companies, as it cultivates skilled, industry-ready professionals who grasp both the science and business of pig production—building a stronger, more sustainable future for the swine industry.