Company Highlights

Next Nest

Members of the Next Nest team joined the HatchTech booth at IPPE in Atlanta the end of January. Peter Gruhl, Director of Sales, and John Byers, Project Manager, along with the HatchTech team used this event as an opportunity to further showcase the HatchCare technology for turkeys, connect with customers, and share data on results they are seeing with this technology. IPPE is the world’s largest annual poultry, feed and meat technology exposition, so this event provides a great chance for the team to connect with many in the industry.

Nova-Tech

Last month, team members from Nova-Tech Engineering and Nova-Tech Poultry attended the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) in Atlanta! This event provided an incredible opportunity to connect with customers, strengthen relationships, and showcase our latest innovations in poultry technology. Additionally, IPPE was the opportunity to formally introduce Chris Gorans as our CEO to customers and industry partners.

This show draws large crowds from Latin America, and our LATAM team was busy engaging with customers and industry partners, reinforcing our commitment to supporting the region’s poultry sector.

A highlight of the show was Andrew Gomer’s participation in the Tech Talks, where he shared insights on cutting-edge inoculation technologies and their impact on the poultry industry. Andrew will also be giving a similar presentation at PEAK in Minneapolis this April.

PALS

The PALS team has been busy the past month, they are in the midst of show season! Mid January they were at the SD Pork Show in Sioux Falls, SD and just last week they attended the MN Pork Congress in Mankato. The shows give customers, current and new, a chance to stop by the booth to talk about needs they may have for the upcoming year and to get a PALS bucket!

Select Genetics

Dr. Jake Carlson, Veterinarian for Select Genetics operations in Missouri and Illinois, and Master of Avian Health and Medicine graduate student from UGA Poultry Diagnostic and Research Center, was selected as one of the emerging leaders within AAAP (American Association of Avian Pathologists) to attend the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) Veterinary Leadership Conference this January in Chicago. Jake was selected as one of two members by the AAAP Board to encourage development of leadership skills and dedication to advancing avian medicine and the veterinary profession. The Veterinary Leadership Conference (VLC) is the veterinary profession’s premier conference for leadership development. Through a unique mix of CE sessions, AVMA governance meetings, and networking, attendees expand and hone leadership skills while connecting with a diverse network of colleagues from all walks of the veterinary profession.

Dr. Jake said, “I am very grateful to have been selected as one of AAAP’s emerging leaders this year. This was a great opportunity to not only represent AAAP at the VLC, but also to hone my leadership skills and cultivate a deeper understanding of how AVMA works. It was great to witness firsthand what the organization does for the veterinary profession.”

Congratulations Dr. Jake!!!

Published by Aviagen Turkeys, January 20, 2025

Spotlight on Benefits

February & March Empower Education Series

February’s Topic | Introduction to Taxes

Join Empower for a live webinar to discuss types of taxes, tax-filing deadlines and forms, tax brackets, tax minimization strategies, and methods of and common tax filing errors.

Wednesday, February 26, 2025 – 12pm, 3pm, 6pm EST

March’s Topic | Sandwich Generation

Join Empower for a live webinar to learn about the Sandwich generation: Caring for aging parents and children, maintaining balance and juggling the needs of parents, children, and yourself, plus how to prepare financially.

Tuesday, March 18, 2025 – 10am, 1pm, 4pm EST
Wednesday, March 19, 2025 – 11am, 3pm, 6pm EST
Thursday, March 20, 2025 – 12pm, 3pm, 5pm (Spanish) EST
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 – 12pm, 3pm, 6pm

Once on the registration page click on the monthly webinar to be taken to the registration page or to watch previous Education by Empower recording. Register today to reserve your spot! You can register by going online to learningfromempower.com. The Empower site also provides options for joining a live webinar or accessing additional educational tools and resources.

Children’s Dental Health Month

February is Children’s Dental Health Month, which is the perfect time to focus on healthy habits that keep your smile shining!

Make oral health a priority for everyone in your family. Whether you’re teaching your child to floss, making your own dentist appointment, or being mindful of what you eat, remember: a healthy smile isn’t just about looks – it’s a reflection of good overall health. So, show your teeth some love today and every day, and keep your smile healthy for years to come!

Some of the easiest ways to keep your family’s teeth healthy is by following the 2-2-2 rule:

Brush twice a day for two minutes
Floss daily
Visit the dentist twice a year.

This simple routine helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. Teach your kids these habits early on to set them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Additional resources can be found here:

Winter Issue | Helping You

Our health insurance provider, UMR, has several resources available to guide you in making healthy choices and improving you and your family’s wellbeing. One of the resources they publish is “Helping You,” a single page PDF document that provides wellness-related links on common topics. The February newsletter, as part of American Heart Month, spotlights Heart Health & Blood Pressure along with some hearth healthy recipes. Check out the newsletter below:

February 2025 | Helping You

Years of Service Anniversaries

Congratulations to the following team members who are celebrating Years of Service milestones in the month of February!

5 YEARS

Jacobi Archer | Farm Service Elevator

Gerald Saude | Nova-Tech Engineering

Crystal Lawhorn | Select Genetics

Joshua Martinez | Select Genetics

Elvira Clave | Select Genetics

10 YEARS

Anna Liz Rodriguez | Select Genetics

Diana Rogers | Select Genetics

Eliud Lujano Jr. | Select Genetics

15 YEARS

Doreteo Ortiz | Select Genetics

25 YEARS

Harland Oswald | Select Genetics

30 YEARS

Rhonda Cline | Select Genetics

40 YEARS

Dennis Gaffaney | Farm Service Elevator

Openings

Current status of all organizational openings.

Position	Phase	Current Status	Contact
Maintenance Supervisor Apply Online	Open	Headstart Hatching is seeking a diligent and reliable individual to join our team as a Maintenance Supervisor! The Maintenance Supervisor is responsible for overseeing all routine maintenance of the Hatchery including controlling systems and/or robotic equipment, and providing support for the maintenance function in the Hatchery. The Maintenance Supervisor will manage a team of Maintenance Technicians and will be responsible for ensuring they are properly trained and equipped to carry out their duties. They need to be an active leader for the team with constant involvement, using critical thinking, logic and reasoning to identify the problems or weaknesses in mechanical issues that arise. Maintenance finds alternative mechanical solutions, through proactive and creative approaches, with the ability to direct and instruct other workers in basic repair work and maintenance with positive leadership. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: Management: Manage a team of Maintenance Technicians, assigning task and responsibilities as needed and ensuring that all team members are properly trained and equipped to carry out their duties. Training in new Maintenance Technicians and ensuring that all team members are following established protocols. Overseeing all routine maintenance of the Hatchery including controlling systems and/or robotic equipment, and providing support for the maintenance function in the Hatchery. Maintenance Services: Assists with the general building, maintaining, and repairing of the facility including but not limited to: HVAC, plumbing, electrical, security and fire alarm systems Exterior buildings Cleaning, sanitizing and repairing restrooms and other facilities Emptying and cleaning trash receptacles Floor maintenance Painting and pressure washing facilities Operates and maintains vehicles, equipment and buildings including: Equipment Lawn mowers Power tools Vehicles Small tractors (e.g. forklift) Other maintenance equipment Responds to major project maintenance work orders and daily work orders/assignments related to common areas, buildings and other facility maintenance. Completes special projects, often with short deadlines, as assigned. Aid contractors on construction/installation of various incubator and hatcher equipment along with other miscellaneous hatchery equipment. Conducts frequent checks around the hatchery, monitoring the hatchers and incubators and the temperatures and pressures in the hallways. Addresses any issue that arises, and prioritizes repairs when necessary. Follows all of the company’s rules and regulations for bio security, animal welfare and safety. Demonstrates organization and prioritizes responsibilities that need attention around the hatchery to ensure efficient operations at the hatchery. Demonstrates high knowledge about the machinery at the hatchery and the ways to fix all issues that occur and assists where needed in the hatchery. Demonstrates the ability to work with a variety of tools and equipment including automation and technical machinery. Complete other duties as assigned by Hatchery Manager. Administrative Support: Receives, stores and issues equipment, material, merchandise, tools and supplies. May order materials and supplies with prior approval from management. Drives vehicles for pick-up and delivery services. Locks and unlocks of buildings on a daily basis. Records and maintains maintenance logs. Responds to incidental situations after hours and provides on call maintenance coverage on weekends as part of a regular staff rotation. Ensures that all maintenance practices and services comply with state guidelines (e.g. Building standards, EPA, etc.). Direct supervision of other maintenance staff Safety: Maintains a safe and healthy work environment by following established standards, procedures and addressing maintenance needs. Conducts routine on-site safety checks and maintains work areas, equipment and surrounding grounds to prevent the existence of unsafe conditions. Conducts preventive maintenance on all maintenance equipment and tools. Follow all company regulations pertaining to bio security, animal welfare and safety. The ideal candidate will have the following educational and experience background: High school diploma or equivalent (GED). Minimum of two (2) years of experience in the maintenance and repair field. Valid Driver’s License. Certifications or Licensures in the following areas preferred: Air conditioning, heating and ventilation (HVAC) Class B Boilers License Plumbing Basic carpentry and construction skills. Understand occupational hazards and utilize standard safety procedures. Basic carpentry and construction skills. Good problem-solving and time management skills. Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to manage and motivate a team of workers at different levels. Bilingual in Spanish and English is preferred. Who We Are: Headstart Hatching is the first turkey hatchery in the world to hatch commercial poults with immediate access to feed and water from the moment the hatchling leaves the egg and throughout their stay from hatch to the farm. This industry-changing technology will eventually be shared with the world, but first we’re going to put it to good use for our region’s benefit. Located in Willmar, MN, we are part of a family of companies that have made this place our home for over 75 years, and Headstart Hatching is the next (and not last) company we’ve committed to build here. Benefits at Headstart Hatching: We are proud to offer a generous benefit package in addition to competitive compensation. Our benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance options, a Health Savings Account with company match, 401K plan with company match up to 4% of your compensation, PTO accrual, two personal days per year, holiday pay, company paid short and long term disability, and company paid life insurance. Apply Online or to Further Inquire, Contact: Francisca Gonzalez/ HR Specialist Francisca.gonzalez@life-scienceinnovations.com 320-222-9827 Read More	Francisca
Maintenance Technician Apply Online	Open	Headstart Hatching is seeking a diligent and dependable individual to join our team as a Maintenance Technician Maintenance is responsible for ensuring the proper functioning and maintenance of all hatchery equipment and facilities. Must have comprehensive knowledge of the functioning of incubation and hatching equipment, as well as hatch pull and servicing equipment. Fully understand all hatchery processes, with emphasis on factors affecting hatchability, poult quality and poult cost. Maintenance uses critical thinking for identifying and solving mechanical problems negatively affecting hatchery processes. Maintenance finds alternative mechanical solutions, through proactive and creative approaches, with the ability to direct and instruct other workers in basic repair work and maintenance. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: Maintenance Services: Perform routine maintenance and repairs on hatchery equipment including incubators, hatchers, ventilation systems, automation equipment, and water supply systems. Conduct preventive maintenance tasks to minimize downtime and ensure efficient hatchery operations. Responsible for all routine maintenance of the Hatchery including controlling systems and/or robotic equipment. Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and implement corrective actions promptly. Monitor and maintain environmental controls to provide optimal temperature, humidity, and ventilation for maximal hatchability and poult quality. Prepare incubators/hatchers for setting/transferring new eggs. Set eggs in the incubators and make sure adequate profiles are in place. Maintain inventory of spare parts and equipment, ensuring adequate supplies are available for maintenance and repairs. Adhere to safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a safe working environment for maintenance personnel and other hatchery employees. Collaborate with hatchery management and other team members to optimize hatchery performance and productivity. Document maintenance activities, equipment performance, and repairs for record-keeping and analysis purposes. Conducts routine on-site safety checks and maintains work areas, equipment, and surrounding grounds to prevent the existence of unsafe conditions. Follow all company regulations pertaining to bio security, animal welfare and safety. Participate in training programs to enhance technical skills and stay updated on industry best practices. The ideal candidate will have the following educational and experience background: High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required. Minimum of two (2) years of experience in the maintenance and repair field. Technical Certifications (Boiler license, advance in vocational training in mechanical field) required Bilingual in Spanish and English- preferred. Valid Driver’s License Schedule: Core business hours: 48-hour work weeks 6AM-6PM Work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed. Who We Are: Headstart Hatching is the first turkey hatchery in the world to hatch commercial poults with immediate access to feed and water from the moment the hatchling leaves the egg and throughout their stay from hatch to the farm. This industry-changing technology will eventually be shared with the world, but first we are going to put it to good use for our region’s benefit. Located in Willmar, MN, we are part of a family of companies that have made this place our home for over 75 years, and Headstart Hatching is the next (and not last) company we have committed to build here. Benefits at Headstart Hatching: We are proud to offer a generous benefit package in addition to competitive compensation. Our benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance options, a Health Savings Account with company match, 401K plan with company match up to 4% of your compensation, PTO accrual, two personal days per year, holiday pay, company paid short- and long-term disability, and company paid life insurance. Apply Online or to Further Inquire, Contact: Francisca Gonzalez/ HR Specialist Francisca.gonzalez@life-scienceinnovations.com 320-222-9827 Read More	Francisca
Hatchery Worker – Back Crew Apply Online	NEW!	Headstart Hatching is seeking a diligent and dependable individual to join our team in our Transfer area. POSITION PURPOSE The Hatchery Worker will be responsible for the movement of turkey eggs and poults between different parts of the hatchery with the assistance of automation. This includes loading and unloading eggs from incubators manually and transfer into hatcher baskets with automated equipment. Once transfer is complete, manually pushing the baskets into hatchers for the remaining hatching time. This is an important job that requires careful attention to detail and a commitment to animal welfare. The Hatchery worker will play a critical role in ensuring that turkey eggs and poults are properly cared for and maintained during the transfer process, using automated equipment and machinery to maximize efficiency and productivity. ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES • Operate automated equipment used for transferring turkey eggs. • Manually carting embryos and poults between different parts of the hatchery, including incubators, hatchers, and service room. • Handling embryos and poults in a humane manner with maximum animal welfare. • Labelling embryos and poults correct to ensure proper orders are fulfilled • Any other duties as assigned JOB SPECIFICATIONS Knowledge • Knowledge of turkey egg and poult handling procedures is preferred JOB SPECIFICATIONS Knowledge: • Knowledge of turkey egg and poult handling procedures is preferred Skills • Attention to detail and ability to accurately label and identify eggs and poults Abilities • A Physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and perform repetitive tasks. Experience • Previous Hatchery experience preferred Schedule • Willingness to work flexible hours and weekends as needed. Bilingual in Spanish and English- preferred Schedule: Work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed. Who We Are: Headstart Hatching is the first turkey hatchery in the world to hatch commercial poults with immediate access to feed and water from the moment the hatchling leaves the egg and throughout their stay from hatch to the farm. This industry-changing technology will eventually be shared with the world, but first we are going to put it to good use for our region’s benefit. Located in Willmar, MN, we are part of a family of companies that have made this place our home for over 75 years, and Headstart Hatching is the next (and not last) company we have committed to build here. Benefits at Headstart Hatching: We are proud to offer a generous benefit package in addition to competitive compensation. Our benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance options, a Health Savings Account with company match, 401K plan with company match up to 4% of your compensation, PTO accrual, two personal days per year, holiday pay, company paid short-term disability, and company paid life insurance. Pay rate: $17.44 This is a Temporary to full time position. Apply Online or to Further Inquire, Contact: Francisca Gonzalez/ HR Specialist Francisca.gonzalez@life-scienceinnovations.com 320-222-9827 Read More	Francisca
Sanitation Hatcher washer Apply Online	NEW!	Headstart Hatching is seeking a diligent and dependable individual to join our team in our Transfer area. POSITION PURPOSE The Turkey Hatchery Sanitation Worker will be responsible for ensuring that the hatchery facilities, equipment, and tools are kept clean and sanitized in compliance with all biosecurity protocols and industry regulations. The role requires a high level of attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for the turkeys. This is a critical role in ensuring that the turkey hatchery maintains a clean and healthy environment for the turkeys, which is essential for their growth and development. The Turkey Hatchery Sanitation Worker will play an important part in maintaining the biosecurity of the hatchery and ensuring that all equipment and facilities are clean and sanitized to industry standards. ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES • Clean and sanitize hatchery facilities, equipment, and tools using approved cleaning agents and methods. • Follow established protocols for disinfecting equipment and tools, including service room, unloading/loading docks, and various specialty turkey hatching gadgets. • Dispose of waste materials, including hatchery debris and manure, in accordance with industry regulations and biosecurity protocols. • Communicate any sanitation-related concerns or issues to the Hatchery Manager or other relevant staff members. • Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and company policies related to sanitation and biosecurity. • Assist with other hatchery-related tasks as needed. JOB SPECIFICATIONS • Knowledge of sanitation best practices and procedures. • Familiarity with biosecurity and industry regulations is a plus. Skills Ability to follow established protocols and procedures for cleaning and disinfecting hatchery facilities and equipment. • Strong attention to detail and ability to identify potential sanitation issues. • Good communication and interpersonal skills Abilities • A Physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and perform repetitive tasks. • Ability to effectively lead and motivate a team. Bilingual is a plus Experience • Previous experience in a sanitation role, preferably in an agricultural or food production setting. Schedule Bilingual in Spanish and English- preferred Core business hours: Willingness to work flexible hours and weekends as needed. Roatating schedule hours Who We Are: Headstart Hatching is the first turkey hatchery in the world to hatch commercial poults with immediate access to feed and water from the moment the hatchling leaves the egg and throughout their stay from hatch to the farm. This industry-changing technology will eventually be shared with the world, but first we are going to put it to good use for our region’s benefit. Located in Willmar, MN, we are part of a family of companies that have made this place our home for over 75 years, and Headstart Hatching is the next (and not last) company we have committed to build here. Benefits at Headstart Hatching: We are proud to offer a generous benefit package in addition to competitive compensation. Our benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance options, a Health Savings Account with company match, 401K plan with company match up to 4% of your compensation, PTO accrual, two personal days per year, holiday pay, company paid short-term disability, and company paid life insurance. Pay Rate: $17.44 This is a temporary to full time job. Apply Online or to Further Inquire, Contact: Francisca Gonzalez/ HR Specialist Francisca.gonzalez@life-scienceinnovations.com 320-222-9827 Read More	Francisca
Hatchery Maintenance Tech I/II (Rotating Shift) \| Terre Haute, IN Apply Online	Open	This role will be responsible for the general overall maintenance of the facilities and automation equipment utilized in the poult hatching process under the direction of the Hatchery Maintenance Supervisor. Qualifications and Skills General knowledge of machinery and the diagnostic acumen to repair broken machinery. Able to work with a variety of tools and equipment including, but not limited to, a forklift, welding equipment, electric drill, electric meter, wrenches and screwdrivers. Demonstrated problem-solving and troubleshooting skills. Ability to follow and adhere to the management all of company’s policies and regulations for bio security, animal welfare and safety. Must exhibit safe work habits and use of safety equipment and PPE when necessary. Must have flexability with rotating shift. Physical Qualifications: Must have good hand-eye coordination. Must be in good physical condition as this role is expected to be moving constantly and occasionally lifting heavy objects and maneuvering heavy machinery up to 60 lbs. The work environment includes exposure to dust and certain chemicals and fumes as well as extreme weather conditions and live animals. Read More	Vanessa

Welcome New Employees

Hector Uriel Millan Nunez
Hatchery Worker
Concepcion Campos Sequeirs
Sanitation Worker
Nelda Sepulveda
Fabiola Ramos Lopez
Mayra Meneses Flores
Janin Sanchez
Zobeida Valdez
Service Room Worker

Owen Jansen
Bin Assembler

Virginia Lassalle Morales
Egg Picker - EPK (F)
Laura Mendoza de Delgado
Jose Delgado
Goldsboro Plt Srvc Tech
Edwing Huete Marin
IL Milker
Joseph Jacobson
MN Asst Farm MGR
Paula Mesa Cardenas
MN Tom Lab
Joel Rivas
MN Truck Mechanic
Carlos Nazario Rodriguez
MO Catcher
David Robles
MO Egg Picker
William Stonebraker
MO Farm Maint
Gabriel Gutierrez
Benjamin Ippolito
MO Farm MGR Trainee
Emmanuel Maldonado
MO Farm Sanitation
Odilia Coc Choc
Anthony Zepeda
MO General Labor
Erik Zavala Anguiano
Edgar Avila Anguiano
NC Catcher
Corey Chavis
NC Catcher/Chaser
Nathaniel Burch
NC CDL Egg Driver
Anilaire Pierre
Philome Augustin
Kyontez Leak
Isnara Augustin Charles
Blaise Peterson
Jerome James
Treshun Sellers
Chelsey Locklear
William Call
Lov Augustin
Noel Joseph
NC Egg Picker
James Woodford
Julnor Henrius
NC General Labor
Ardiel Hernandez Ardin
Osceola Back Crew
Ckael Alfaro Gutierrez
Alfredo Francisco De Francis
Rudael Nunez Sanchez
Osceola Back Crew
Jesus Vazquez
Yoel Martinez Del Sol
Yannier Castano Alvarez
Osceola Back Crew
Claudia Lopez Garcia
Keylan Cruz Gonzalez
Licet Pereira Rosabal
Oleidis Zamora Cintra
Walter Ramirez Quintero
Yadeysi Leal Nieves
Annia Leal Nieves
Danay Talavera Ramirez
Yirisdai Marsella Formeta
Osceola Plt Srvc Tech
Maria Andrade
Osceola QC Technician
Wyatt Bishop
Terre Haute CDL Poult Driver
Alba Garcia Vallejos
Terre Haute Laundry
Octavio Arteaga Baca
Luis Franco Yanez
Terre Haute Transfer

Clifton Robbins Jr
Driver
Gearld Fry
Adrianna Michelle Martinez
Alex Pierre
Iris Rodriguez Rodriguez
Daphnie Gonzalez
Kyaw Lu
Mackenson Monfiston
Ricardo Rodriguez
Julio Fuentes
Lineworker

Employee Count

As of 2/18/25 we have 2,251 employees

For Human Resources related questions or concerns, please message us via email at human.resources@life-scienceinnovations.com or give us a call at

EMPLOYEE UPDATE

February Update