It is rare to have the chance to meet your mentor, let alone split a pizza and spend hours learning more about someone who inspired your career.
In November 2022, Karine Talbot, Director of Animal Health at HyLife, had a once-in-a-lifetime visit with Dr. Temple Grandin.
“It was surreal; I was nervous. I’m going to meet one of my idols in real life. I followed her papers and lectures, but you normally never get that one on one moment. And then, I picked her up at the airport, and she wanted lunch, so we shared a pizza. In that time, we could talk about what actually made us both passionate about animal behavior. I really appreciate those moments.”
– Karine Talbot, Director of Animal Health
Dr. Grandin is widely considered a leading expert in her field. As part of our ongoing commitment to animal welfare, HyLife recently engaged the professor of animal science and distinguished author. She travelled to Canada to extensively tour operations, including HyLife farms and a processing plant in Neepawa, Manitoba.
“I was really fortunate to spend time with her when she visited HyLife. I had the chance to see Dr. Grandin working and assessing our barns and handling techniques. I really like how she watches the animals, how they behave, and how they are to assess their welfare. She is an inspiration. She is a woman that has been able to make her place in the industry at a time when very few women were involved in the agricultural business.”
Growing up in Quebec, Canada, Talbot always wanted to be a veterinarian and thought she would focus on cats and dogs. But it was after discovering her passion for pigs she found her true calling in animal health. She credits Dr. Grandin, among others, for carving a path that has helped females like herself reach key leadership roles.
Young Karine Talbot in Quebec
On days such as International Women’s Day (March 8), a global movement celebrating women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements, Talbot looks back at her own journey.
“There’s one day of the year when we need to recognize the amazing women. I’m where I am because of mentors and role models. So, I hope every little girl and every woman growing and dreaming realize it’s achievable.”
It is a message the mother of four tries to instill both at home and within her team. HyLife is proud of Karine Talbot, an inspiring example of female leadership within the agricultural business. In honour of International Women’s Day 2023, we salute her work and Dr. Grandin.
Karine Talbot, Director of Animal Health, HyLife
Dr. Temple Grandin
