Mackenzie Bressler combines a passion for California agriculture with experience in communication and agricultural associations in her new role as executive director of the California Pork Producers Association.
A native of Colusa, California, Bressler was active in 4-H and FFA, including showing cattle and creating agricultural education projects for the local elementary school like growing a pumpkin patch and corn maze for students to learn about farming and agricultural production. She earned an associate degree in communications at Cuesta College and a bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo.
“I fell in love with telling the stories of farmers and ranchers and how our food is produced,” said Bressler. “I also recognized the importance of working with consumers to increase understanding of modern agriculture and to serve as an advocate for the industry.”
After college, she gained experience with agricultural associations at Farmers Communications Exchange, a Sacramento-based firm that provides management and communications resources to a variety of California produce and commodity groups.
“Our focus was to go behind the scenes to learn about all the things California farmers do to produce a safe and healthy food supply and then share that information with consumers in our state and beyond,” she said. “I enjoyed making connections with consumers to explain the standards and practices involved in California food production so they could have confidence in their purchases.”
As External Relations Director for the College of Agriculture at California State University, Chico, she worked with students, faculty and staff as well as industry leaders and alumni.
“We worked to encourage the next generation of agricultural producers and industry in the state, including connecting students with job opportunities in California,” she said.
Bressler started as executive director at CPPA in February 2025 and is looking forward to working with members and the board of directors to build on the organization’s momentum.
“There is a lot of opportunity to grow membership and for collaboration and partnerships across the industry,” she said. “I’m looking forward to showcasing the pork industry for the public as well, considering pork is an important source of protein in the diet.”
She noted it is critical for California’s pork producers to have a seat at the table in policy development and that the industry has a strong story to tell, highlighting the care and commitment that goes into all types of pork production across the state.
Building on the state’s leadership in show pig production and youth programs is also key.
“I am really excited about the strong youth programs in place at California Pork Producers Association and the potential to build on them to benefit young people, the organization and the California Pork industry,” she said. “Being involved in youth programs is more than a resume-builder for students, it helps them see the diverse career opportunities in the pork industry and California agriculture.”
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