K-State professor implements a career-boosting, hands-on program for his students with help from a local producer
When the average person thinks of the swine industry, their mind is probably filled with thoughts of sizzling bacon on a stovetop.
To Robert Goodband, university distinguished professor in the Department of Animal Sciences and Industry at K-State, pigs are much more than that. The swine industry fills his research and teaching career with fascination.
“My first exposure to pigs was working on a farm that had cattle and pigs,” Goodband said. “I split my time between the two but really enjoyed the pigs.”
When he was in graduate school for swine science, he experienced the depth teaching gives to his career.
“It all kind of clicked,” he said. “I found that I enjoy all the aspects of teaching and researching.”
Beyond the classroom
Goodband knows the life-changing effect first-hand experience can have for students, so he makes sure to give them immersive learning experiences with in-class demonstrations and time working with the pigs in-person.
His students complete many influential lab tasks: ultrasounds, boar collection, litter processing and Goodband’s Pig Sneak program.
“The Pig Sneak is an opportunity for students in swine science class to go to a local farm and experience commercial production where they wean a group of pigs and place them in nurseries,” he said.
The idea was proposed to Goodband by a local swine producer interested in giving students more hands-on opportunities.
The Pig Sneak, in its six years of success, has given many students clarity about their future career paths.
“It broadens students’ educational skills and exposes them to opportunities that exist in the swine industry, where there are tremendous career opportunities,” said Goodband. “I am very lucky to have my job; it’s the best one on campus.”
By Kate Ellwood
