Jones P&I Leaders Honored in Meat Industry

Kelsey Sindelar, Process & Innovation Director at Jones, was one of just 24 participants selected for the Meat Institute’s 2026 Emerging Leaders Program, which promotes and develops future leaders in the meat and poultry industry.

With both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Meat Science from Iowa State University, and prior experience ranging from food science at Tyson Foods to an education and training role at the Meat Institute, Kelsey brings a unique blend of creativity and strategy to the table. As leader of the P&I Team, she focuses on blending science, tradition, and innovation to elevate Jones’ processes and products.

“Being selected as a 2026 Emerging Leader is an absolute honor, especially knowing the longstanding history Jones Dairy Farm has with the Meat Institute,” said Kelsey. “I’m honored to represent Jones on a national level and proud to be part of an organization that invests in their team members’ strengths, skills, and aspirations.”

The Emerging Leaders Program offers participants mentorship, leadership training, and access to exclusive industry events, including:

• A Farm to Fork Tour highlighting all stages of protein production
• The Washington Experience, which includes leadership training and direct engagement with policymakers
• The Protein PACT Solutions Summit, where leaders collaborate on solutions to advance the industry

“I’m most excited to build on my skillset to become the best leader I can be for the Jones Dairy Farm family,” added Kelsey. “Through the Farm to Fork Tour and the Washington, D.C. experience, I’ll gain a broader understanding of the diverse perspectives, regulations, and resources available to the meat industry that I can bring back home to Fort Atkinson.”

Growing up on a farm, Brooke’s passion for food science came naturally. After earning her degree from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, she spent four years at Tyson Foods honing her technical expertise before joining Jones, where she helps the P&I team optimize products and processes to uphold the company’s longstanding commitment to quality.

“It’s exciting to be honored with this award, especially when you know you’re competing against many others who may have more qualifications or honors,” said Brooke. “It’s amazing to be recognized and glad to be able to represent Jones Dairy Farm on a national level at IPPE.”

The IPPE Young Leaders program offers honorees complimentary access to the world’s largest annual trade show focused on meat, poultry, and egg production, as well as animal feed and pet food. Participants also receive access to educational sessions, networking opportunities, and a VIP tour of the trade show floor. IPPE 2026 is January 27-29, 2026, in Atlanta, GA.

“I’m looking forward to connecting with vendors and suppliers from across the country that could potentially aid Jones in technical or equipment advancements,” added Brooke. “It will also be great to gain more connections and network with my peers who work in different segments of the meat industry and hear about their experiences throughout their careers.”