For more than 80 years, Hoover’s Hatchery has been a trusted name in backyard poultry, hatching and shipping chicks from its headquarters in Rudd, Iowa. What began as a small family operation in 1944 has grown into the largest provider of backyard poultry in the United States, offering more than 200 breeds. With locations across multiple states and partnerships with major retailers, Hoover’s Hatchery continues to expand its reach while staying true to its North Iowa roots.
As the company has grown, so has its commitment to investing in its people. Hoover’s Hatchery was introduced to NIACC’s Business and Workforce Solutions through a personal recommendation that quickly developed into a strong partnership. “It’s a testament to how much impact a simple recommendation can have and we’re glad we took that first step,” said Suzzee Meusel, Vice President of Human Resources. With support from NIACC, the company has implemented trainings focused on leadership, safety, communication, and customer service, along with customized training tailored to their operations.
The goal behind the partnership has always been clear: to support employees at every level. As Hoover’s Hatchery continues to evolve, leadership recognized the need to address skill gaps and prepare their workforce for new challenges. “We want to help our employees perform better in their current roles while also expanding their skill sets for future growth,” Meusel shared. NIACC provided a way to deliver development opportunities without disrupting daily operations.
The experience has been both seamless and impactful. Employees have responded enthusiastically, often sharing how the skills they gained have benefited them at work and in their personal lives. “People don’t just tolerate the training. They genuinely enjoy it and come away wanting more,” said Meusel. This engagement has contributed to stronger communication, increased safety awareness, and a noticeable shift in workplace culture.
Today, the results speak for themselves. Hoover’s Hatchery has seen meaningful improvements in communication, leadership, and daily operations. Their team is more confident, collaborative, and better equipped to support continued growth. For businesses across North Iowa, Meusel offers this advice: “If you haven’t connected with NIACC’s Business and Workforce Solutions team, you’re leaving a real resource on the table.”
Inspired by Hoover’s Hatchery’s success? NIACC partners with businesses of all sizes to deliver customized training solutions that help employees grow and organizations succeed. Learn more about Customized Training or request a consultation to discuss your workforce development needs.
