The Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) recognized Jess Feierabend, of Central Lakes College, as the 2025 Post-Secondary Educator of the Year during MFBF’s Annual Meeting on November 21 in Minnetonka.

 

Feierabend’s journey in the meat industry began at age 14, working as a clean-up kid at Eyota Meat Locker. In his late teens, he managed a meat shop in Northeast Brainerd, where he identified a need for farm-to-table processing and began connecting local farmers with consumers.

 

He has been instrumental in developing meat processing education across Minnesota. Collaborating with Central Lakes College, Feierabend teaches hands-on programs and designs curricula, including certificates in Meat Cutting and Butchery and Sausage Smoking and Curing. He also works with high schools statewide, supporting meat processing courses through curriculum development, funding guidance, and leadership of FFA meats competitions.

 

A strong advocate for agriculture, Feierabend assists local businesses, Farm Bureau, and community events with processing needs, creating opportunities for students and families alike. Through his teaching, leadership, and his own meat processing business, Feierabend continues to strengthen Minnesota’s farm-to-table connections and inspire the next generation of agricultural professionals.