First Ever Regional Event at WAMP

WMIN hosted our first ever regional event on April 9 at the Wisconsin Association of Meat Processors (WAMP) Convention in Madison, WI.

The event brought together industry and academia, from students to senior leaders, all actively engaged as WMIN member Emily Usinger shared her story as part of the fifth generation at Usinger’s in Milwaukee, offering practical and personal insights. Emily, who spends “85% or more” of her time on the production floor, emphasized leading with empathy and compassion while deeply understanding the people and processes that drive the business.

After gaining experience outside the family company, which she strongly recommends, Emily returned to Usinger’s during the COVID era, stepping in wherever she was needed, from pre-op to formulation. That period gave her a ground-up understanding of the manufacturing operation she describes as boutique and bespoke. Her connection to the business began early, with childhood Saturdays spent alongside her father at the plant, absorbing the realities of daily operations.

From those early experiences to leading through unprecedented challenges, Emily’s story reflected both humility and preparedness, underscoring the value of broad experience, hands-on learning, and people-centered leadership as she helps guide a company founded in 1880 into its future.

This incredible event marked an exciting first step for WMIN at the regional level, and we're just getting started.