By Blake Jackson
Dairy producers, industry professionals, and emerging leaders who want to sharpen their focus and recommit to their purpose are invited to attend the 2026 Pennsylvania Dairy Summit.
The two-day event will be held February 4-5 at the Holiday Inn Harrisburg-Hershey in Grantville, Pennsylvania, and will feature more than 20 engaging speakers from across the dairy sector.
Supported by grants from the Center for Dairy Excellence, Professional Dairy Managers of PA, and event sponsors, registration is intentionally affordable. Dairy producers can attend both days for $100, with a one-day option available for $50.
Scholarships are also available for young dairy professionals ages 18 to 30. Scholarship recipients can attend the full Summit for $50 and will receive a complimentary hotel room, access to a Young Professionals Opening Night Reception, and participation in a focused human resources panel designed specifically for young leaders.
“I found great value in my experience at the PA Dairy Summit. For young individuals, I think the variety of topics and discussions was important. There was a unique combination of dairy farmers and industry professionals who discussed both types of careers,” shared Sara Kennedy, a Penn State student and past scholarship recipient.
“There was great exposure to different types of farms, the future of dairy products, and the current topics in the industry. I would definitely encourage any young professional who wants to be involved in the dairy industry to attend – especially if they want to gain exposure to the industry from different perspectives.”
Hosted by Professional Dairy Managers of Pennsylvania and the Center for Dairy Excellence, the Summit will include keynote sessions on innovation, leadership, profitability, and business ownership.
Dairy producers will lead several sessions, including a producer panel on pathways to profitability, a keynote showcase on innovation with Brody Stapel of Wisconsin, and breakout discussions on executive leadership and technology return on investment.
“One of the best sayings I have read and keep in the back of my mind is: ‘People always think the grass is greener on the other side of the fence, but the truth is, the grass is greener where you water it,’” said Megan Fry of Fair Hill Farms.
To register, view the full agenda, or apply for the Young Dairy Professionals scholarship by January 15, 2026, visit www.padairysummit.org.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-vwalakte
Categories: Pennsylvania, Business, Livestock, Dairy Cattle