Dr. Barry Richard Kerkaert serves as Chairman of the Board for Pipestone Holdings, providing strategic leadership and governance to one of the world’s leading swine health and production organizations. In this role, he guides the board’s oversight of Pipestone’s vision, growth, and long-term sustainability—ensuring the organization continues to serve its producer partners, employees, and communities with integrity and innovation.
With deep roots in agricultural business and veterinary medicine, Dr. Kerkaert brings decades of experience in swine health, production systems, and producer collaboration to his role as board chair. He is recognized for fostering strong alignment between Pipestone’s board, management, and producers, and for championing initiatives Pipestone’s mission of Helping Farmers.
Based in southwest Minnesota, Dr. Kerkaert remains committed to strengthening rural communities through education, youth development, and agricultural outreach. He and his wife, Karen, are proud parents of three children—Hayden, Jenna, and Aubrey—and are active supporters of South Dakota State University and local community programs.
