EDINBURGH, Scotland – The Aviagen® Global Incubation Services team was pleased to welcome 36 students from 19 countries to the 11th annual Hatchery Module of the Aviagen Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia (EMEAA) Production Management School.
Held for the eighth consecutive year in Budapest, Hungary, from April 4-11, the module offered practical tools and knowledge to help participants enhance their skills in hatchery and incubation management. The program reflected Aviagen’s commitment to Breeding for the Future by investing in the next generation of poultry professionals and providing them platforms to learn and share knowledge.
“It’s truly wonderful to connect with people who share the same interests and passions. Language and ethnicity are not barriers to learning and staying connected. I met both newcomers and seasoned professionals who’ve dedicated their lives to poultry. I learned so much from the Aviagen team and guest speakers, whose dedication and service stood out. I’m confident that what I’ve gained will benefit our company greatly,” said Jewelry Maligsa, Production Manager, Bounty Plus Inc, Philippines.
Unlocking hatchery success
The Hatchery Module focused on helping students get the best out of their hatchery operations – improving hatchability and chick quality to support strong broiler welfare and productivity.
Through a mix of classroom discussions and hands-on activities, students explored what developing embryos need during incubation and how to evaluate whether those needs are being met.
“I most enjoyed the Q&A sessions, practical activities, and case studies. The brainstorming helped us learn from one another,” said Jessie Huang, Senior Incubationist, Aviagen Australia.
Learning together, growing together
Each day, students shared knowledge with Aviagen and external specialists in hatchery management, data analysis, auditing and trial design. A highlight was the hands-on exercise in which students built mini incubators, cared for fertile eggs, and monitored their development throughout the week.
“Creating the six-day incubator was a relevant and engaging experience – a great ice-breaker that helped us share our different perspectives,” remarked Vincent Schippers, Export Manager, Pluriton Belgium BV.
This spirit of collaboration is at the heart of Aviagen’s business approach Breeding Success Together – working alongside producers and industry professionals to share knowledge and strengthen success across the poultry value chain.
Celebrating leadership and passion
At every EMEAA module, the David E. Butler Award is presented to a student who shows outstanding leadership, innovation, and passion for the industry. This year, the honor went to Beth Pickup, Technical Field Manager at Avara Foods, UK.
“I’m grateful to be recognized with the David Butler Award,” said Beth. “The week was full of learning, but the real highlight was connecting with passionate people from across the industry. I gained so much, both in and outside the classroom.”
“Beth showed incredible energy, curiosity, and leadership throughout the course,” added Eddy van Lierde, Global Head of Incubation Services. “We’re proud of every graduate in the class of 2025. The combination of theory, practical experience, and teamwork is designed to give them the tools they need to succeed – today and well into the future.”