As we begin a new year with new challenges, it is my honor to extend a warm welcome to our new board leadership. With a shared vision and collective determination, we are poised to embark on a journey marked by innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to driving positive change and growth for the animal health industry.
Our newly appointed board chair, Matt Musselman, and vice chair, Kent Luther, bring a wealth of expertise and diverse perspectives that will undoubtedly enrich our strategic direction. Their passion for the animal health industry and their proven track records will be invaluable as we navigate through the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
At the heart of our shared agenda, lie three pivotal pillars: workforce development, innovation, and public policy. These priorities, crafted in alignment with our core values, will guide our actions and decisions throughout 2024.
1. Workforce Development: We recognize that people are the cornerstone of success, for our member companies as well as the industry. Fostering an inclusive, supportive, and diverse work environment remains paramount. The Animal Health Corridor will work collaboratively with the industry to develop workforce strategies to attract and retain a diverse workforce skilled in key competencies. This will help Corridor companies meet their needs. The Corridor will continue to work with allied partners to raise awareness of career opportunities in animal health with the next generation of talent.
2. Innovation: Innovation is the lifeblood of progress and advancement of the global animal health industry. The Corridor will be a conduit for advancing innovation within the animal health industry by providing coaching, industry market numbers/trends, connections to strategic and capital partners, assist with completion of an investor profile, and investor decks for the companies selected to participate in the 2024 Animal Health Summit. As market conditions allow, and in coordination with industry partners and executives, we will host targeted venture capital groups in Kansas City for educational discussions about investable opportunities in the animal health sector.
3. Public Policy: Beyond our immediate sphere of influence, we recognize the broader impact we can have through advocacy and engagement in shaping progressive public policy. We are committed to being active participants in conversations that impact our industry. The Corridor will support federal and state legislation and policies that advance and promote Corridor assets. The Corridor will build coalitions and support stakeholders who advance education, innovation, research, and full operational funding for the National Bio and Agro Defense Facility (NBAF).
As we begin a new year, I extend my deepest gratitude to all our board members for their invaluable contributions and unwavering dedication. Their leadership has laid a strong foundation upon which we will continue to build and grow.
Together, guided by our shared priorities, we are poised to write the next chapter of the Corridor’s remarkable journey.