Thanksgiving Turkeys

The Presidential pardon of turkeys for Thanksgiving has been observed since 1947 and this year’s birds hail from Minnesota!  The turkeys being pardoned this year were grown by NTF Chair, John Zimmerman, and were hatched at Headstart Hatching.  Peter Gruhl, Director of Sales, for Next Nest Hatching will assist in transporting the birds to the White House for this honor.  Fun fact: in 2011, the pardoned turkeys were raised within our organization and Rick Huisinga, Life-Science Innovations CEO, presented the turkeys to President Obama for pardoning.  To learn more about this unique Thanksgiving tradition check out this article from CNN or go to eatturkey.com.

Nova-Tech Poultry

We are thrilled to announce the successful completion of Nova-Tech Poultry’s Annual Training Week! This year, we had the pleasure of welcoming nearly 40 team members from around the globe to our headquarters. Training Week is a cornerstone of our commitment to continuous improvement and innovation. During the week, our team engaged in comprehensive sessions reviewing our latest technologies, learning about the newest updates, and sharing best practices. This event not only enhances our technical skills but also strengthens our global connections. We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated and contributed to making this week a success. Your dedication and enthusiasm are what drive Nova-Tech Poultry forward.

PALS Catalogs

Congratulations to James Cardenas, PALS Warehouse, on designing the winning catalog covers for both the 2025 Hog Catalog and the 2025 Animal Heath Catalog!

Select Genetics Happenings

YMCA Trunk & Treat

The Select Genetics | Missouri office participated in the annual YMCA Trunk and Treat event, handing out candy to over 4,000 kids. This is a great way for them to get involved in the community and create more awareness of Select Genetics.

Pumpkin Decorating & Flu Shots

Select Genetics | Indiana completed flu shots this last month and also held a pumpkin decorating contest. Below are a few fun photos from the office activities!

Reasonable Suspicion Training

The Select Genetics | Missouri Transportation department recently completed reasonable suspicion training to ensure a safe, productive, and compliant workplace.  The training supports the wellbeing of employees and reinforces our commitment to a safe and healthy work environment for everyone.

Spotlight on Benefits

401(K) Super Catch-Up

Beginning January 1, 2025, 401(K) participants aged 60-63 will have the opportunity to make additional catch-up contributions to their retirement accounts.  This is part of SECURE 2.0, aimed at empowering individuals in this age group to boost their retirement savings as they approach their retirement years.  The Super Catch-Up election is based on the age you are at the end of 2025, for example, if you are 63 going into 2025 and turn 64 prior to the end of the year, you would not be eligible for the Super Catch-Up.

THINGS TO KNOW:

ENROLLMENT PROCESS:

If you are eligible and wish to take advantage of the additional catch-up contributions, you may adjust your contribution limit through Empower by logging in to your retirement plan account at https://empowermyretirement.com.

For more details on the Super Catch-Up check out the Super Catch-Up informational sheet from MarshMcLennan Agency.

TrueRX partners with Mark Cuban Cost Plus

TrueRX, our pharmacy benefit manager, recently partnered with Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus prescription drug program.  This change means employees are now able to access Cost Plus pricing and have their claims count toward their deductible and max out-of-pocket! Enrolled members can follow the steps below to see if this new program is a fit for their needs:

Look for a confirmation email once your prescription has been received and complete your medication order.  Be sure to check REQUEST INSURANCE PRICE to have your prescription processed with your TrueRX insurance so it goes toward your deductible and max out-of-pocket.

Additional resources available:

• Mark Cuban Cost Plus | English
• Mark Cuban Cost Plus | Spanish

Q4 MMA Savers Spotlight

Are you ready to take your retirement planning to the next level? In a world where healthcare costs are rising and retirement planning can feel overwhelming, understanding how to leverage your HSA could be a game-changer. Our Retirement Plan Advisors at Marsh McLennan Agency have created a short video that will reveal how HSAs can not only help you save for medical expenses but also serve as a strategic component of your overall retirement plan. You can view this video at your convenience by visiting the Plan Resource Center. It is located under the “MMA Savers Spotlight” section in the top right of the page. Keep an eye on the MMA Savers Spotlight banner, where our advisors will be posting quarterly education on topics we hope you find timely and helpful.

Years of Service Anniversaries

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

5 YEARS

Steven Koch | Select Genetics

Michael Salinas | Select Genetics

Mark Harley | Select Genetics

Ku Ku Paw | Turkey Valley Farms

10 YEARS

Billie Jo Lane | PALS

Rachel Gonzalez | Select Genetics

Maria Acosta | Select Genetics

Idania Castillo Vazquez | Turkey Valley Farms

15 YEARS

Joanna Schrupp | MinnWest Technology Campus

Antonio Camarillo Licon | Select Genetics

Elizabeth Mendoza | Select Genetics

Selma Spielmann | Turkey Valley Farms

20 YEARS

Brian Ninefeldt | Life-Science Innovations

Tracy Booth | Select Genetics

Warren Heise | Turkey Valley Farms

Gregorio Alberto Martinez | Turkey Valley Farms

Allan Brown | Turkey Valley Farms

25 YEARS

Jose Rojas Lopez | Select Genetics

Openings

Current status of all organizational openings.

Position	Company	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
Manufacturing Engineering Co-Op – 2025		Open	Nova-Tech Engineering currently has Full Time Co-Op opportunities located in Willmar, MN.  The Co-Op program is available beginning January 2025 through August of 2025 or May 2025 through December 2025 for students pursuing Manufacturing Engineering degrees. Ideally we are looking for students who are available to gain valuable experiences with us for a period of six-nine months and entering their Junior | Senior year of school. About: Nova-Tech Engineering was founded in 1992 and began as one person’s passion to benefit the agricultural industry.  Through innovative process automation technology, the company engineers and manufactures products that serve over 500 commercial poultry hatcheries in over 59 countries worldwide.  Headquartered in Willmar, MN, on the beautiful MinnWest Technology Campus, Nova-Tech Engineering employs over 290 people, including mechanical, electrical, manufacturing, and agricultural engineering specialists.  Our engineers are exposed to a variety projects and work in small teams in a collaborative environment. Learning Experience Objectives: Build successful working relationships with members of a cross-functional team Identify areas for professional development outside of core engineering curriculum Develop a general understanding of the various roles, processes, and procedures that support product development within an Engineering Group With direction from the Product Owner and team, learn how to prioritize many competing tasks and project responsibilities to meet objectives on-time Develop understanding of specific areas of skill and disciplines of interest within Engineering Learn how to use an Agile Scrum framework to get work done in a collaborative team Nova-Tech's Purpose Statement We create revolutionary solutions that advance our customers' ability to feed the world Core Values at Nova-Tech Engineering Collaboration/Communication: We will combine diverse talents to achieve shared goals. Agility: We will be adaptable and flexible to do whatever is necessary to succeed. Strengths: We will capitalize on the unique talents of each employee every day. Innovation: We will inspire the application of imagination and science to create unique solutions to problems. Excellence: We are committed to continually raising the bar for our products, processes and services. Servant Leadership: We actively steward the Purpose, Vision and Values of Nova-Tech Engineering. Strengths Based Culture: In 2005, we began training managers on the Gallup Strengths concept of discovering employees' natural talents and managing to those strengths in order to maximize engagement and productivity. A strengths-based approach is one that understands each employee brings a unique set of talents and drive to his or her job, and that if allowed to further develop and use those strengths, everyone wins. To Apply or Further Inquire Contact: Rachel Weiss | Talent Acquisition Rachel.Weiss@nteglobal.com (320) 222-9790 Read More	Rachel
Mechanical Engineering Co-Op – 2025 Apply Online		Open	Nova-Tech Engineering currently has Full Time Co-Op opportunities located in Willmar, MN.  The Co-Op program is available beginning January 2025 through August of 2025 or May 2025 through December 2025 for students pursuing Mechanical Engineering degrees. Ideally we are looking for students who are available to gain valuable experiences with us for a period of six-nine months and entering their Junior | Senior year of school. About: Nova-Tech Engineering was founded in 1992 and began as one person’s passion to benefit the agricultural industry.  Through innovative process automation technology, the company engineers and manufactures products that serve over 500 commercial poultry hatcheries in over 59 countries worldwide.  Headquartered in Willmar, MN, on the beautiful MinnWest Technology Campus, Nova-Tech Engineering employs over 290 people, including mechanical, electrical, manufacturing, and agricultural engineering specialists.  Our engineers are exposed to a variety projects and work in small teams in a collaborative environment. Learning Experience Objectives: Build successful working relationships with members of a cross-functional team Identify areas for professional development outside of core engineering curriculum Develop a general understanding of the various roles, processes, and procedures that support product development within an Engineering Group With direction from the Product Owner and team, learn how to prioritize many competing tasks and project responsibilities to meet objectives on-time Develop understanding of specific areas of skill and disciplines of interest within Engineering Learn how to use an Agile Scrum framework to get work done in a collaborative team Nova-Tech's Purpose Statement We create revolutionary solutions that advance our customers' ability to feed the world. Core Values at Nova-Tech Engineering Collaboration/Communication: We will combine diverse talents to achieve shared goals. Agility: We will be adaptable and flexible to do whatever is necessary to succeed. Strengths: We will capitalize on the unique talents of each employee every day. Innovation: We will inspire the application of imagination and science to create unique solutions to problems. Excellence: We are committed to continually raising the bar for our products, processes and services. Servant Leadership: We actively steward the Purpose, Vision and Values of Nova-Tech Engineering. Strengths Based Culture: In 2005, we began training managers on the Gallup Strengths concept of discovering employees' natural talents and managing to those strengths in order to maximize engagement and productivity. A strengths-based approach is one that understands each employee brings a unique set of talents and drive to his or her job, and that if allowed to further develop and use those strengths, everyone wins. To Apply or Further Inquire Contact: Rachel Weiss | Talent Acquisition Rachel.Weiss@nteglobal.com (320) 222-9790 Read More	Rachel
Hatch Back Crew Supervisor | Terre Haute, IN Apply Online		Open	Position Purpose: Maintain hatchery production running efficiently and well-organized while supervising back crew employees. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Select Genetics, presents a solid platform to serve customers on a national and international scale by providing quality poults, service, and innovation.  Select Genetics is the leading supplier of poults and eggs to growers and companies across the world and has operations in eight US States. The Hatch Crew Supervisor is responsible for but not limited to: Supervising Hatch Crew employees during production; Developing and ensuring implementation of Pull Order schedules; Completing Hatchability Paperwork with clear and legible writing and submitting paperwork to the office; Assisting as needed to keep production running; Preparing the Pull Order for the following day; Overseeing animal welfare and biosecurity protocols and procedures of the department during production; Planning and coordinating for the week. Essential Duties for the  Hatch Crew Supervisor include: Following all of the company’s rules and regulations for bio security, animal welfare and safety; Working as a team member to achieve the company’s goals; Quickly learning information to perform the job duties successfully; Successfully leading and monitoring others; Demonstrating patience while working with and monitoring others; Being flexible and able to work in many different positions in the department; Working around humidity, dust, soaps and disinfectant odors; Lifting crates weighing up to 50 pounds and pushing and pulling heavy rolling carts; Being available and willing to work an extended work day as needed. Principal Accountabilities: Follow the directives of the Assistant Hatchery Manager; Successfully lead, supervise, and manage up to 16 employees, ensuring they are performing their job up to company standards; Assign Back Crew members to various Back Crew tasks; Prepare Pull Order schedule and Pull Orders; Complete and submit accurate Hatchability Paperwork in a timely manner; Maintain a safe and clean working environment; Follow all company regulations pertaining to bio security, animal welfare and safety. Attend all Supervisor/Management meetings, required to attend. Education, Experience, Knowledge & Skills: Requirements: High School diploma is preferred; Prior experience with animals or hatchery preferred; Previous in a supervisory role preferred; Ability to communicate verbally and listening with others - Bilingual Required (Spanish speaking). Ability to work successfully in a team environment; Ability to perform job duties while wearing Personal Protective Equipment required of the position. Read More	Vanessa

Welcome New Employees

Michael Achman
Chief Financial Officer

Valentin Garza
Warehouse Delivery Driver

Anthony Henderson
Goldsboro Back Crew
Ines Bravo Diaz
Goldsboro Plt Srvc Tech
Bradyn McKenney
IL Egg Picker
Kris Vega Gonzalez
Martin Morales
MN Catcher
Aden Ibrahim
Wryan Craine
Aung Khaing
Katie Resendiz
Samuel Montellano
Dee Htoo
MN Egg Picker
Bradley Bengtson
MN Farm Driver
Carlos Garcia
MN Milker
Nyssa Davila
MO Egg House
Raquel Yanez
MO Egg Picker
Erwin Reyes Perez
MO Farm Sanitation
Angel Alvarado
MO Milker
Fernando Trejo-Zamarripa
NC CDL Driver
Ruberlens Baptiste
Dorline Charles
Jean Somervil
Benito Duval
Ednelson Dieudonne
Keayre Allen
Lynne Barton
NC Egg Picker
Glen Collins
NC General Labor
Nicholas Jimmerson
Justin McCoy
NC Milker
Bensy Simeon
Odilien Joseph
NC Vacc
Terry Abbott
Alban Chrisman Jr
Terre Haute CDL Poult Driver
Matthew McManigell
Terre Haute Hatchery Maintenance
Edgar Schofield Jr.
Terre Haute Service Room Machine Spec

Carlos Castillo
Theresa Gallardo
Maria Gonzalez
Leticia Naredo Hernandez
Rosa Hernandez
Thuy Quyen Tran
Naw Dah
Kyaw Eh Ku
Jose Lara
Bianka Garcia
Lucely Ramirez Chavez
Luxon Felix
Francisco Bermudez
Ta Ru
Carlos Figueroa Vasquez
Gloria Rodas Huete
Chak Phoe Da
Khay Myii
Kyunghyun Park
David Svobodny
Lineworker

Employee Count

As of 11/18/24 we have 2,210 employees

Human Resources is a 360 degree business partner with our family of affiliates to attract, engage, retain and develop our most valuable resource: our people.  We are located on the first floor of Life-Science Innovations on the MinnWest campus at 1800 Technology Drive. We look forward to working with you!

Please message us via email at human.resources@life-scienceinnovations.com or give us a call at

320.222.9750 and select Human Resources, option 1