Empowering managers: Embracing diversity, consistency, and attitude for success
Presented by Cornell CALS PRO-DAIRY and the Northeast Dairy Producers Association (NEDPA), the Operations Managers Conference trains dairy farm managers and elevates their management and operations skills, whether their focus is cows, crops or people.

Since 2009, this biennial conference has brought together dairy and crop managers to learn strategies from across the dairy farm management spectrum and to network with other progressive dairy farm employees and advisors. Keynote presentations highlight strategies for self-improvement that apply across management specialties. Specialty breakout sessions take a deeper dive into training and tools related to dairy, crops and human resource management.
The next Operations Managers Conference will be hosted in January 2027.
Presented by:


2025 Conference Highlights
Over 200 dairy producers and industry professionals from across the country gathered in East Syracuse, NY for two full days of education and networking at the biennial dairy conference. The event brought together farm managers to explore strategies across the spectrum of dairy farm management spectrum while fostering connections with other progressive farm employees and industry professionals.
Participants gained insights into how their roles are shaping the future of the dairy industry. Attendees represented dairy farms, industry advisors and partners, suppliers, and university and extension professionals.
The conference’s theme, “Empowering Managers: Embracing Diversity, Consistency, and Attitude for Success,” was reflected in keynote presentations designed to inspire self-improvement and professional growth. Specialty breakout sessions provided in-depth training and tools on critical topics in dairy production, crop management, human resources, and business operations.
In a move to ensure accessibility of education for all farm employees, this year’s conference introduced simultaneous Spanish translation during general sessions, along with additional breakout sessions offered exclusively in Spanish. These efforts were met with positive feedback, reinforcing the conference’s commitment to serve the hard-working professionals who contribute to the dairy industry’s success.
“These conferences underscore the critical role of investing in the development of our farm staff and employees,” said Tonya Van Slyke, NEDPA Executive Vice President of Industry Relations. “As the future leaders of our industry, their dedication to enhancing farm productivity, fostering inclusive and diverse teams, and driving innovation in the face of challenges is both commendable and inspiring.”





Erik Therwanger from ThinkGREAT shared his powerful insights on Leading thru Chaos, teaching today’s leaders the tactics and strategies necessary to navigate their teams through any challenge.
Technical breakout sessions provided attendees with the latest resources, innovative strategies, and practical solutions across the dairy farm management spectrum.
New this year, general sessions were offered with simultaneous Spanish translation and additional breakout sessions were offered exclusively in Spanish.
The conference format allows time for networking and fostering connections with other farm employees and industry professionals.
A panel of dairy producers, NYS executives and policy advocates hosted an engaging panel discussion to empower attendees to see the value and impact of their voice.
Thank you, sponsors!
PRO-DAIRY and NEDPA thank the industry partners whose sponsorship helps make this event possible. Specialty sponsors were Cargill, Inc. (translation sponsor) and Pikeside Ag Machinery (registration sponsor). Platinum sponsors were Delaval Dairy Service, Farm Credit East, ACA, and Merck Animal Health. Additional sponsors are listed on the conference website.
For More Information
- (607) 255-4478
- hh96 [at] cornell.edu