Manitoba’s Hog Sector Invests in Its People

The Hog Sector Is Investing in People and Communities Across Manitoba

Hog farmers invest in the people and communities where they live. Did you know the hog sector is one of the few industries still generating new jobs in rural Manitoba? In this episode, we visit a large-scale hog operation in southeastern Manitoba run by Sheldon Dyck. We follow Sheldon and his team from the barn to a team-building outing at a local virtual golf facility. Find out why Manitoba’s hog sector is a place where people grow, stay, and thrive!

A Farm Built on People First

Sheldon Dyck has worked in Manitoba’s hog sector since his first job on a farm when he was 15. Today, he is senior manager of Supergro Gilts Ltd., overseeing multiple barns and a diverse team. For Sheldon, the measure of a well-run operation isn’t found in production numbers alone. He knows that caring for animals well takes skilled and committed people. So he shows his staff what needs to be done, works alongside them, and invests in their growth every step of the way. As Sheldon sees it, family and people come first. And in an industry that is important for our food system and economy, that kind of leadership matters.

She Traded Planes for Pigs

When her kids started school, Katie set her sights on getting her pilot’s license. To fund that dream, she took a job at a hog barn after a friend encouraged her to apply. She got her license but says she couldn’t bring herself to leave the barn. The hog sector gave her a well-paying job she loved with freedom, flexibility, and room to advance, all without having to leave her small community. Today, Katie manages Supergro 1A and credits Sheldon’s mentorship and willingness to create opportunities for her success.

Pork Feeds the World and Strengthens Communities

Sheldon and Katie’s story represent a much larger picture in our province. Fifty-five percent of all agriculture and food manufacturing jobs in Manitoba connect to pigs and pork. The farms they manage help sustainably meet the world’s growing demand for high-quality protein. We are proud to have partnered with Manitoba Pork to tell their story. Learn more about careers in the hog sector at www.manitobapork.com.