Front row L to R: Avery Revelez, Auburn University; Markie Nelson, Birmingham Southern College; Gaylin McCormick, TN Tech Univeristy; Catherine Holbrook, North Carolina State University; Grace Stotts, Texas A&M University; Jessica Fairris, Auburn University; Kaleigh
Blackstrom, Auburn University; Rena Coen de Peck, University of Arkansas; Sylvia Stewart-Bates, Davidson College Back row L to R: Megan Hofmann, West Virginia University; Preston Higginbottom, Texas A&M University; Dylan Fancher, Auburn University; Bethany Priest, TN Tech University; Weslee Daniel, Auburn University; William Aycock, Auburn University; Colt Hunter, Auburn University, not included in the picture: Austin Parker, Middle TN State University; Angharad Rees, Haper Adams University (UK); Sam McIntyre, Harper Adams University (UK); Collin Dorrill, Auburn Univeristy; Kolton Witherspoon, Texas A&M University
Aviagen® North America celebrates the accomplishments of a group of exceptional university students, who will soon conclude their summer internships at various poultry breeding facilities across the US. For nine weeks, these talented students immersed themselves in diverse aspects of poultry breeding operations, engaging in production, veterinary services, quality assurance, hatchery management, research and development, diagnostics, business analysis, production planning, and egg depot operations. Collaborating closely with Aviagen experts at facilities in Alabama (Albertville, Elkmont, and
Huntsville), Tennessee (Crossville and Pikeville), and New York (Watertown), this
hands-on experience has given them invaluable insight into the multifaceted world of
poultry breeding and showed them the breadth of opportunities within this dynamic
industry.
On May 22, North American team welcomed the 19 students from renowned universities with agriculture departments, including Auburn University, Texas A&M, Tennessee Tech, University of Arkansas, Davidson College, Birmingham Southern, North Carolina State, Middle Tennessee State and West Virginia University. Additionally, two students from Harper Adams University in the UK were able to gain experience at a US poultry breeding operation. Likewise, two students from US universities travelled overseas to Aviagen operations in the UK, touring farms and facilities and gained a unique perspective on poultry breeding in another country.
The program will culminate in each student delivering a presentation on July 28,
sharing their experiences and conclusions drawn from their individual projects.
“To breed the best, we need the best, and that’s why we value our up-and-coming
poultry professionals, and are committed to providing them with the skills and insight
necessary for success in poultry. They are our future, and their contribution is vital to
the sustainability of our industry and our ability to help feed the world with a healthy
protein source,” commented Amanda Williams, Aviagen’s Senior Human Resources
Business Partner. “The dedication, passion and aptitude of this year’s US interns
were exceptional, as they quickly grasped new skills and concepts, making a lasting
impression on Aviagen and our team of experts. We wish them all the best for a
fulfilling career making transformative contributions ot the global poultry industry.
