I-LEAD Class 11 International Learning Mission to Vietnam and South Korea Expands Global Perspectives 

In February, the Iowa Corn Leadership Enhancement and Development (I-LEAD) program traveled to Vietnam and South Korea on an international learning mission as part of the two-year program. The group studied local agriculture and visited trading partners to better understand the important role Iowa grown corn plays in global markets. The mission explored corn trade in all forms from grain to ethanol to livestock feed. I-LEAD and the Iowa Corn staff work closely with the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) to dive into each market to better understand global economies and the value of trade to each market.  

Throughout their travels, participants visited a commercial banana farm, worm and rubber tree farm, wet market, fish farm, feed mill and more. Each of these stops gave participants a look at trade and agricultural practices within the country and opened the door for conversations about sustainable agriculture, animal nutrition and global markets.  

I-LEAD class members walked away with new perspectives, ready to use their new skills to continue driving corn demand. View key takeaways from I-LEAD members below. 

Katie Jorgensen: 

“Our international learning mission to South Korea and Vietnam has been incredibly impactful, strengthening trade relationships and expanding opportunities for Iowa Corn. By meeting directly with buyers and industry leaders, we gained valuable insights into their market needs and how U.S. agriculture can better serve them. This experience not only reinforced the importance of global trade but also highlighted the role of strong partnerships in securing a future for American farmers. The mission has deepened my understanding of international markets and inspired me to continue advocating for agricultural growth and innovation.”  

Darin Proffit: 

“The recent I-LEAD international learning mission was a life changing trip to Vietnam and Korea! Getting fully immersed in the local culture and hearing firsthand from buyers and users of our products showed me why international trade is so critical to success on our own farms. Having representatives from the U.S. Grains Council come along with us on different tours helped to show context and was very insightful. I’m honored to have represented Iowa along with my other classmates as we gained further understanding of agriculture in Asia!” 

Derek Kemper: 

“I had a wonderful experience traveling to Vietnam and South Korea. The hospitality that was shown to our group throughout the trip was amazing and allowed us to really experience the country’s culture. A big takeaway I had was learning how they utilize their local markets to help drive their economy. I will use this experience as I think about how I can do a better job of supporting local businesses here in Iowa.” 

I-LEAD is a two-year program for talented farmers and friends of the industry who want to become strong leaders and spokespeople for Iowa agriculture. The I-LEAD 12 application cycle will open in July 2025. If you are interested in learning more about the program, visit: https://www.iowacorn.org/leadership-programs/i-lead/.  

For More Information:

Sydney Garrett, Public Relations Manager, sgarrett@iowacorn.org, 515-225-9242