Penn State Students Experience the 2012 KILE

About the Keystone International Livestock Exposition

Few events provide an opportunity, for both exhibitors and spectators, to witness such a large number of cattle, sheep, swine and horses under one roof.  Everyone has the opportunity to intermingle with the main stem of the agricultural industry, the farmers.  One little known secret of the KILE is the opportunity it provides for Penn State University (PSU) students in Dr. Ann Swinker’s, Associate Professor of Equine Sciences, Animal Science Equine Events Management AN SC 297 Class.

Equine Events Management Class

The Equine Events Management class provides education in the many aspects of management that is needed to plan, coordinate and staff a large event.  Prior to the event, the students are introduced to the many different aspects and opportunities equine events offer to prospective graduates.   The five main goals of the class are:

1. Understand the program planning process
2. Possess time management skills
3. Understand the management of volunteer and paid staff
4. Develop an events program/schedule
5. Understand facility selection and preparation for an event.

Why?

There is a need for well-trained managers in the equine and livestock organizational fields throughout the United States and abroad. 

• A career in this area demands that the students be prepared for the possible job opportunities in breed associations, product promotions, show/fairground managers, equine facilities, stable managers, livestock operational businesses and basically all aspects of the livestock/equine industry. 
  
• Often the students are placed in these positions without the skills and knowledge to succeed. 
  
• The PSU students’ participation during the KILE enables them to gain this knowledge by participating in the administration of the equine events at the KILE.
  
• The students work close with the show secretary and assist in the operations of the event.

• The students, in a final assignment, document and relate how their experience, in assisting with the KILE, better prepared them for a possible career in events management.

Cooperative Experience

Not only do the students benefit from this experience, but their comments and thoughts assist the KILE Equine Show Superintendent in obtaining fresh insight into ideas that can be incorporated into future KILE horse events and improve existing schedules.  PSU appreciates the KILE Board allowing students to participate and experience an exceptional livestock event.  The students should be complemented for their insight, hard work and contributions during the 2012 KILE.