MILK
What is MILK?
The MILK Emerging Leaders Program empowers the next generation of dairy farmers with the leadership skills, industry connections, and checkoff knowledge needed to make a lasting impact.
Backed by research from Dairy Management Inc. (DMI), the program is built for young, ambitious, and educated farmers who want to grow their leadership potential, advocate for the industry, and deepen their understanding of the dairy checkoff.
At the heart of the program is the belief that first-hand, in-person experiences are essential to developing strong, informed dairy leaders. Through immersive visits, face-to-face networking, and real-world learning opportunities, MILK participants gain a deeper understanding of how dairy promotion and partnerships work - insight that simply can’t be replicated in a classroom or online.
Who Should Apply?
This program is open to 10–15 dairy farmers from across the Dairy MAX region who are looking to:
- Strengthen their leadership and advocacy skills
- Expand their industry network
- Gain hands-on experience with dairy promotion efforts
How Does Milk Work?
Recruitment and Selection
- June–July 2025: Applications open
- July 31, 2025: Application deadline
- August 2025: Application review and selection
- Late August 2025: Inaugural class announced
Program Sessions
- October 7-9, 2025: In-person session – Dallas–Fort Worth, TX
- February 2026: Virtual session
- April 21-23, 2026: In-person session – Denver, CO
- June/July 2026: Virtual session
- October 2026: In-person session – Lubbock, TX
- Late 2026/Early 2027: Graduation, recognition at Dairy MAX Board Meeting (Location and Date TBD)
Questions?
Contact your Dairy MAX Territory Manager for more details.
Wade Howard: howardw@dairymax.org
Kamy Whatley: whatleyk@dairymax.org
How to Apply?
CLICK HERE
