Agriculture Students Attend Poultry Exposition

Three Eastern Kentucky University agriculture students -- Eric Phelps, of Somerset, Tyler Rench, of Bradford, Ohio, and Scott Benjamin, of Bethel, Ohio --attended the 2013 International Poultry Exposition in Atlanta, Ga., Jan. 29-31.

While at the IPE, students had the opportunity to see the newest technology available to the poultry industry, network with other students and industry representatives and interview for positions with several agricultural companies and organizations through the College Student Career Program. They were accompanied by Dr. Laurie Rincker, faculty member in EKU’s Department of Agriculture.

Students participating in the College Student Career Program submit resumes that are distributed to companies participating in the program. Employers contact students and schedule interviews for positions or internships during the expo. Many students have secured valuable internships and jobs through participation in the program. 

IPE is the world's largest trade show for the poultry and egg industry. The International Poultry Expo is also the primary source of funding for the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, the world's largest and most active poultry organization. It represents the entire industry as an "All Feather" association. Membership includes producers and processors of broilers, turkeys, ducks, eggs and breeding stock, as well as allied companies.

Formed in 1947, the association has affiliations in 27 states and member companies worldwide. This nonprofit organization represents its poultry and egg members through research, education, communications and technical services. Funds earned at the International Poultry Expo are funneled directly back into the industry as research grants, educational programs, communications and technical assistance.