First for Forum returns in 2026 with five new ambassadors

Five pet food professionals have been named First for Forum Ambassadors for Petfood Forum 2026, earning complimentary attendance at the annual industry event set for April 27-29 in Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.

Now in its fourth year, the First for Forum program is open to pet food professionals who have never attended Petfood Forum. Ambassadors are selected through a nomination process.

"First for Forum provides an incredible opportunity for up-and-coming pet food professionals to gain valuable industry insights from leading experts, network with established professionals and build lasting connections, and discover the latest trends and innovations shaping pet food," said Lynzee Branstetter, marketing manager with WATT Global Media, which organizes and hosts Petfood Forum along with Petfood Industry magazine.

Branstetter said the program's purpose goes beyond free admission. "First for Forum is about creating a space where industry veterans and newcomers can connect and collaborate," she said.

2026 ambassador class

Amber RamseyAmber Ramsey, supply chain buyer, Muenster. Ramsey said her priority at the show is building and deepening supplier relationships. 

"My goal is to strengthen existing supplier relationships while identifying new strategic partners who align with our quality and cost objectives," she said. "I am especially focused on learning more about protein sourcing trends, supply continuity strategies, and ways to improve operational efficiencies across procurement and production."

Charile TianCharlie Tian, general manager, Cambridge Treats. Tian said he hopes to leave the event with actionable ideas. 

"Building new relationships, strengthening existing partnerships, and identifying practical ideas and solutions we can apply immediately in pet food manufacturing," he said of his goals for the show.

Rachel StrassburgerRachel Strassburger, quality assurance and R&D assistant, FirstMate & Kasiks Pet Food. Strassburger is looking forward to the Future of Pet Food Pavilion and the academic research on display there. 

"Seeing the work being done in academia is both exciting and essential for driving progress in the industry," she said.

Erica LairdErica Laird, R&D manager, Freshpet. Laird said she is eager to explore how technology is reshaping product development. 

"I'd love to spark some new ideas for innovation and see how AI is being used to streamline work across different platforms," she said.

Josh HollerJosh Holler, R&D associate scientist, Instinct Pet Food. Holler said he is attending his first industry conference with a focus on learning and networking. 

"My goals for attending this conference are to bring some good learnings back to our team and make some new meaningful connections," he said.

Read more about the 2026 First for Forum Ambassadors here.

Petfood Forum and Petfood Essentials show dates are April 27-29, 2026, in Kansas City, Missouri, U.S. To register or stay informed on the latest event developments, go to PetfoodForumEvents.com.