This month, we're excited to feature Niki Ellis from Kentucky. As the Executive Director of the Kentucky Pork Producers Association and a strong advocate for the swine industry, Niki shares her story, insights, and advice for those looking to get involved. With a strong passion for the show pig industry, Niki plays an important role in both leadership and advocacy, working to shape the future of pork production. Here’s a conversation with Niki about her experiences and vision.

Q: ShowPig
Welcome, Niki! Thank you so much for joining me today and being a part of our "Seat at the Table" series. Could you start by introducing yourself and sharing a little bit about your background?

A: Niki Ellis
I’m Niki Ellis, the Executive Director for the Kentucky Pork Producers Association. I also lead the collaborative efforts between Kentucky and Tennessee Pork Producers Associations. Outside of that, my husband, Brandon, and I own and operate Vista Brook Farms in central Kentucky, where we run a farrow-to-finish operation and grow row crops.

More importantly, we are deeply involved in the show pig world. Last Saturday, we had our annual sale, where we sent about 75 pigs to their new homes — definitely the most rewarding part of what we do. We raise eight different breeds, so we’ve got all kinds of shapes and colors. Both of our boys exhibit hogs and are members of NJSA and Team Purebred. We live it, we breathe it, and we love everything that this lifestyle and the industry bring.

Q: ShowPig
Awesome! It’s so great to meet someone else with such a deep passion for this. Can you share your journey and how you got to your current position?

A: Niki Ellis
Sure! I graduated in 2014 from the University of Kentucky with a degree in Career and Technical Education. Like many others, I initially thought I wanted to be an ag teacher, but that lasted about 10 minutes before I realized it wasn’t the right fit. While I have great respect for that field, it wasn’t my calling.

I still care deeply about youth development, though, and I decided there had to be another route for me. I applied for a job at the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association as Director of Consumer Affairs. About two months later, I received a call from their executive vice president who said, “I really like your resume, let’s talk.”

I met with him, and he looked at me and said, “I really like everything about you, but I’m not offering you the job.” I thought, “Well, that’s blunt!” But he continued, “I have a better idea. I think you’d be perfect for an education role, and you can shape it however you want.”

So, I became the Director of Education at the Cattlemen’s Association for about seven years. I did all kinds of things, including teaching university classes, helping to create the classroom at Bluegrass Stockyards in Lexington, and advising the State Junior Cattlemen’s Association.

After that, I started hearing that the executive position at the Pork Producers Association was opening up. Some pork producers reached out to me and suggested I apply. I did, and I got the position. I’ve been in this role for almost four years now, and it’s been a wild ride, but I wouldn’t change it for anything.

Q: ShowPig
That's an inspiring journey! So, what motivated you to pursue that leadership role when the position opened up?

A: Niki Ellis
Taking that step up to an executive role was a big change. Moving from a director to an executive position means you shift from focusing on tactical tasks to thinking at a higher level about where you want to take the organization in the long term.

At the time, with my husband being a hog producer, I felt a responsibility to ensure our industry is strong and sustainable for the future — for my boys, especially. I wanted to be in a position where I could contribute to making the industry profitable, sustainable, and able to support future generations. That’s what motivated me to go for it, and it’s still my driving force every day.

Q: ShowPig
I love that. You mentioned you and your husband run a show pig operation. How has your experience as a show pig producer helped you in your current position?

A: Niki Ellis
Being involved in the show pig world has helped me a lot in my role as executive director. The show pig business is not just about pigs or genetics — it’s a people business. You need a strong network, and you must be able to meet people where they are.

The show pig industry is a little different from the commercial side. You have to create your own success because there’s no established market for it. Sure, you can post pictures on Showpig.com, but it’s about building a brand and going the extra mile to make things happen. That mindset of persistence and resilience has been key for me in this role.

Q: ShowPig
That’s great insight. Can you share the most rewarding part of your involvement in this industry?

A: Niki Ellis
The most rewarding part is seeing those “little wins.” The big wins can be hard to come by, but when you see programs that you’ve developed making a real difference for people on the ground, that’s incredible.

For example, in Kentucky, we didn’t have a major jackpot series for show pigs. Through my work, we were able to create the Kentucky Proud Livestock Classic, an event for Kentucky-only animals. It’s been amazing to see how this has helped people market their animals and improve their profitability. I had a conversation with our commissioner of agriculture, Jonathan Schell, about it, and it’s been so rewarding to see the positive impact.

Q: ShowPig
That’s such a fantastic initiative. Are there any other programs you’re currently working on?

A: Niki Ellis
Yes, we have several initiatives going on. One of the most exciting is Team Pork, which you can find on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. It’s a program focused on improving biosecurity and traceability for both commercial and show pigs. This is important because, in the event of a disease outbreak, we need to be able to track where animals have been and ensure business continuity.

On the policy side, we’re actively working on federal legislation regarding Proposition 12, which started in California but has far-reaching implications. Last year, many show pig producers realized they’d be impacted by this legislation, as it requires audits for selling into the California market. We’re still advocating for a fix to that, and we’ll be heading to D.C. soon to meet with our congressional representatives.

Q: ShowPig
You’re definitely involved in a lot! How do you think state associations and programs can help bridge the gap between show pig producers and other industry stakeholders?

A: Niki Ellis
That’s a major topic of discussion across state associations right now. As the profile of producers evolves, we need to create leadership roles that represent every part of the industry.

In Kentucky, for example, we’re working on creating a diverse board that includes leaders from all sectors. Programs like Team Pork are being developed to be flexible so that they can be applied to both large commercial operations and smaller show pig producers. We want to help everyone succeed, no matter their size or focus.

Q: ShowPig
How has this role changed your perspective on the show pig industry?

A: Niki Ellis
My role has shown me just how innovative and forward-thinking the show pig industry is. We are so good at marketing pigs, whether through Snapchat, text messages, or other creative means. The way we market genetics and create new value in the industry is remarkable.

I think commercial producers could learn a lot from the show pig industry’s mindset. If we adopted some of that creativity and outside-the-box thinking, we could solve problems and build a more sustainable future for the entire industry.

Q: ShowPig
 I agree! I didn’t truly understand that until I got involved with Showpig.com. It opened my eyes to all the opportunities in this industry.

To wrap up, what advice would you give to producers considering leadership roles in their state or local associations?

A: Niki Ellis
First and foremost, you’re needed and wanted. Boards need diversity, and the only way to achieve that is by showing up. Even if you have an off-the-farm job like I do, just taking a few hours each month to attend a meeting can make a huge difference.

Your perspective is valuable, and the industry needs you at the table to share it. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your state association and get involved, whether it’s through a leadership role or volunteering. You’re wanted and needed, and there’s a place for you to make a meaningful impact.

Q: ShowPig
That’s so motivating, Niki. Thank you so much for your time and insight today. I know our audience will really appreciate everything you’ve shared.

A: Niki Ellis
Thank you, Abi. I really appreciate the opportunity to be here today.

Thank you, Niki, for your time and insights. We look forward to seeing all the great things ahead for you, your family, and the Kentucky Pork Producers Association!