Dairy MAX is proud to announce the launch of MILK: Maximizing Impact, Leadership and Knowledge, a new program designed to empower the next generation of dairy leaders.
This program was created in response to a clear and pressing need identified through a national survey conducted by Dairy Management Inc. in partnership with 14 state and regional organizations. The findings showed that while there is no shortage of talent and passion among young dairy professionals, they need more structured opportunities to learn, connect and collaborate. MILK will address that need, providing participants the tools, relationships and experiences necessary to lead the industry forward.
Why MILK, and Why Now?
The future leaders of dairy are already among us — young, educated, ambitious and committed to the success of farms and the integrity of dairy products. They are farmers, managers, nutritionists, veterinarians and business owners. They understand the value of innovation and technology, yet they also cherish the traditions and core values that have made dairy a trusted part of people’s lives for generations.
However, even the most passionate emerging leaders face significant challenges, including:
- Navigating increasingly complex operations that require technical expertise, business acumen and people management skills
- Leading multigenerational teams where perspectives and communication styles may differ
- Staying connected to the broader dairy industry to keep pace with new research, regulations and market trends
The national survey uncovered five insights that directly shaped MILK’s design:
- The need to connect with peers and leaders beyond the farm to expand perspectives and spark collaboration
- Peer-based learning opportunities are vital to maintain long-term engagement
- Local connections matter, but regional and cross-state experiences add value
- Flexibility is essential for leaders managing large or complex operations, making virtual components a must
- In-person experiences and a “fun factor” are critical to building enthusiasm and commitment
“We listened to what young dairy professionals told us they needed – and we built a program designed to deliver exactly that,” said Todd Green, vice president of farmer and industry relations at Dairy MAX.
A Program Designed for Impact
The MILK Emerging Leaders Program is an 18-month journey that combines immersive experiences, practical learning and meaningful connections. The format is designed to balance hands-on engagement with flexibility, ensuring participants can benefit without stepping away from their daily responsibilities.
It includes:
- Three in-person sessions held across the Dairy MAX region, each in a different location to showcase diverse dairy environments, challenges and opportunities
- Three virtual learning experiences that allow participants to stay connected and deepen their skills between in-person gatherings
- One board meeting engagement that offers a behind-the-scenes view of dairy governance, strategy and decision-making processes that shape industry direction
Participants will:
- Deepen their understanding of the dairy checkoff — exploring its history, purpose and impact on marketing, education and research
- Experience the full dairy value chain through visits to processors, retail partners and checkoff initiatives that connect producers with consumers
- Develop advocacy and communications skills with training in social media strategy, public speaking and working with the media
- Build influence by engaging directly with dairy promotion professionals and industry leaders
- Join an alumni network to sustain collaboration and support long after the program ends
From checkoff strategy sessions to food bank tours, and from retail test kitchens to open farm dialogues, MILK connects the dots between on-farm excellence and consumer trust.
Meet the Inaugural Class
We are honored to welcome 12 outstanding individuals into the first MILK cohort. They represent the future of dairy — diverse in background, geography and experience, but united in their passion for the industry:
- Gerret Boer – Dalhart, Texas
- Cody DeWit – Dublin, Texas
- Ashlyn Dinis – Orchard, Colorado
- Joshua Docheff – Mead, Colorado
- Pablo Garcia – Lakin, Kansas
- Sydney Goodsell – Plains, Kansas
- Joe Huereque – Horizon City, Texas
- Tammo Mellema – Dalhart, Texas
- Cole Schaap – Clovis, New Mexico
- Lars Schilderink – Hart, Texas
- Bart Van Ruiten – Iredell, Texas
- Chantz Williamson – Dublin, Texas
These leaders will gain exclusive access to industry experiences many never see — from the Colorado State University Spur campus and Leprino Foods test kitchens to a behind-the-scenes tour of the Dallas Cowboys practice facility and even a seat at the Dairy MAX board table.
Why This Matters: Your Checkoff Dollars at Work
The MILK program is funded through your investment in dairy checkoff programs. By nurturing and equipping the next generation of dairy advocates, we ensure that our industry’s story will continue to be told — authentically, accurately and with passion — by those who live it every day.
But this program is about more than storytelling. It’s about building capable leaders who will influence the direction of dairy for decades. Whether they are addressing industry challenges, representing dairy at policy discussions or engaging with consumers, these leaders will have the tools to make an impact.
Looking Ahead
As the inaugural class begins its journey, Dairy MAX will share updates, behind-the-scenes moments and participant insights through our blog and social media channels, including Facebook and LinkedIn.
With your ongoing support, we are not just training leaders, we are building a stronger, more resilient future for dairy. One where knowledgeable, passionate and forward-thinking individuals are ready to lead with purpose.
