Petfood Forum bridges academia, industry with Student Program

Program looks to foster the next generation of pet food professionals.

Alyssa 2339re 4x6 Headshot
A student gives their research presentation at Petfood Forum.
A student gives their research presentation at Petfood Forum.
Paul Ward Photography

In an effort to connect future professionals with the pet food industry, Petfood Forum introduced its Student Program, a unique opportunity for students to engage with industry experts and explore potential career opportunities.

The motivation for creating the Student Program came from a desire to link academia with the pet food industry. As Petfood Forum is a channel between the pet food world and various sectors, it was recognized that there was a need to extend this connection to students in the industry.

“The best way to do that is to make sure undergraduate, graduate, and Ph.D. students who might eventually have an interest in the pet food industry have access to it,” shared Lindsay Beaton, editor of Petfood Industry magazine and the program’s leadership. “And that’s how the student program was born!”

Program goals and shaping career paths

The key objective of the Student Program is to provide students with exposure to the pet food industry and all it has to offer.

“Students who attend Petfood Forum have access to all our networking events, keynotes and education sessions, as well as the show floor itself,” said Beaton. “We hope they take as much advantage as they can to make industry contacts, learn about some of the finer points of how the industry operates, hear about all the top trends, even do some job hunting.

“Whatever the reasons they’re attending, we aim to help them reach their goals,” she added. “There are also special events we put on just for the students, including a networking event, a career-focused education session, and the Student Research Competition.”

In the Student Research Competition, students present their current research to industry professionals and are given feedback in a low-stress environment. Winners of the competition receive a cash prize reward for their work.

One of the most significant benefits of the Student Program is the potential to shape students’ career trajectories by exposing them to career options they may not have previously considered.

“There are plenty of future formulators, engineers, researchers, professors, you name it, out there who don’t even know pet food is a career option,” said Beaton. “If we can help them to make connections at a time in their lives when they’re beginning to consider career paths, it can only be a good thing for both the students and the industry.”

The Student Program plays a crucial role in addressing future challenges and opportunities within the pet food industry. As the industry continues to evolve, it requires a steady influx of new talent to ensure continued innovation and growth. Providing students with the tools, knowledge, and networks they need, the program helps to foster the next generation of industry leaders.

“New people mean new ideas, new paths of success, and new opportunities,” said Beaton, highlighting the importance of integrating fresh talent into the industry.

Expanding the program

The future of the Student Program looks promising, with plans for expansion and enhancement. Program organizers are continuously exploring ways to increase awareness among new schools and student groups while adding new student-centric events. There are plans to introduce year-round elements to the program, extending its reach beyond the annual Petfood Forum dates. These additions aim to provide students with ongoing resources and opportunities, ensuring the Student Program’s benefits continue throughout the year.

“Stay tuned for more information on that in 2025!” said Beaton.

Petfood Forum  and Petfood Essentials show dates are April 28-30, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri, U.S. To stay informed on the latest event developments, go to PetfoodForumEvents.com. 

Page 1 of 40
Next Page