HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – The second annual Aviagen® North America Fertility Symposium brought together more than 200 poultry producers, industry experts, and students in Huntsville, Alabama, from December 2-3. Hosted by Aviagen with the support of sponsors Big Dutchman, Ceva, and Innovatec, the symposium served as a dynamic platform for the exchange of insights, best practices, and innovations to further advance fertility, hatchability, and overall poultry production.
The event kicked off with an inspiring keynote address from Tim Tebow, whose powerful message of working together with passion and purpose perfectly complemented the company’s theme of Breeding Success Together. He highlighted the power of collaboration and shared commitment in achieving goals, setting the stage for the two days of meaningful collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
Aviagen Vice President of North America Commercial Business Billy Hufford emphasized the company’s commitment to its customers, stating, “Our Fertility Symposium underscores our dedication to empowering the poultry industry through shared learning and innovation. Together with our valued sponsors and participants, we are paving the way for continued success in breeding practices and sustainable production.”
Throughout the event, attendees engaged with leading industry speakers who shared their expertise on a range of critical topics:
- Mike Donahue (Agristats): Industry Trends
- Ken Semon (Aviagen): Space Requirements
- Dr. Jose J. Bruzual (Aviagen): Grading Outcomes
- Chad Mason (House of Raeford): Everyday Feeding Practical Implications
- Dr. Jeanna Wilson (Consultant): Male Management Practices
- Paul de Schouwer & Siemen de Jong (Innovatec): Hatchery Automation Impacts
- Dr. Doug Aldridge (Aviagen): Breeder Innovations
The symposium concluded with a highly engaging roundtable discussion, allowing participants and speakers to delve more deeply into the day’s topics and collaborate on actionable solutions for the challenges facing the industry.
The symposium successfully raised $8,000 for the Tim Tebow Foundation, with contributions from attendees and a dollar-for-dollar match provided by Aviagen. The funds will support the foundation’s efforts to raise awareness, prevent human trafficking, rescue victims, and provide restorative care to survivors of trafficking and child exploitation.
Aviagen remains steadfast in its mission to foster advancements in poultry breeding and to collaborate with customers worldwide to drive success and sustainability.