The Petfood Forum 2022 Student Program, hosted inside The Future of Pet Food Pavilion (located in the exhibit hall), will include an expert panel on May 3 from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. called “From research to resumé: How to launch your pet food industry career.” Panelists include Bart Dunsford, Ph.D., PAS, business development manager for Lallemand Animal Nutrition; Michael Steilen, marketing director for Lallemand Animal Nutrition; and Emily Lyons, partner at Husch Blackwell.
The three industry experts will discuss the paths that led them to their current positions in various aspects of the pet food world; give their insights on what potential employers may be looking for; provide tips on the most attractive resumé line items to strive for; and answer any questions about where to start when it comes to breaking into the pet food industry.
About the panelists
Michael Steilen has over 20 years of animal health, brand management and leadership experience to his role as marketing director at Lallemand Animal Nutrition. In addition, he has experience marketing analytical devices for both biotechnology and human medicine. Steilen holds a bachelor of science degree in biology and microbiology in addition to a master of business administration degree, both from Iowa State University. In his spare time, Steilen is an avid homebrewer, golfer, woodworking enthusiast, photographer and fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals.
Bart Dunsford brings more than 20 years of experience supporting the swine, aquaculture and companion animal 
industries in more than 40 different countries. Dunsford received his bachelor of science degree in animal science and industry from Kansas State University, then went on to receive his master of science degree in nutrition and doctorate in veterinary anatomy with an emphasis in swine nutrition from Texas A&M University. He is a member of the American Society of Animal Science and the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists, and has served on several AFIA committees. In his spare time, Dunsford enjoys skiing and hiking with his family and their latest adventure has been the rescue and adoption of dog from a puppy mill.
Emily Lyons grew up on a Northern Illinois dairy farm, and now helps clients bridge the gap from farm to fork. Her research and writing skills — and a preference for people rather than cows — set her on the path to become an attorney. Understanding that food and beverage producers face tough choices regarding sustainability, marketing and legal requirements, she steers clients toward best solutions. Before private practice, Lyons served as counsel and director of regulatory affairs at the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA). Her unique ability to speak the language throughout the supply chain brings clients value as she navigates complex scientific information, melds it with antiquated regulatory constructs and makes it understandable, all while remaining innovative and cutting edge.
About the Student Program
The Student Program segment of Petfood Forum strives to build a bridge between the pet food industry and those looking to potentially enter it. With access to all educational sessions and the exhibit hall, students attending Petfood Forum are able not only to learn more about all facets of the industry, but also to network and speak with potential future employers. A two-day research presentation component provides those students studying companion animal nutrition and related areas with the opportunity to present their completed academic research to their peers and the industry. For more information on the Student Program, please contact Student Program Coordinator Lindsay Beaton.
