Dr. David Wicker, vice president of live operations at Fieldale Farms, has been awarded the 2024 Poultry Science Association (PSA) Distinguished Poultry Industry Career award. Sponsored by the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY), this award recognizes exceptional contributions by an industry leader. In addition to presenting the award, USPOULTRY makes an annual contribution to the PSA Foundation on behalf of the recipient.
“USPOULTRY is delighted to honor industry leaders embodied by David. He has devoted numerous years of his career to finding solutions for poultry and egg industry issues, including improving broiler production sustainability. We believe that David’s work has truly helped to grow and improve our industry,” said Nath Morris, president of USPOULTRY.
Dr. Wicker's career spans several decades, during which he has made significant contributions to the poultry industry. He earned his bachelor's degree in science and doctoral degree from Clemson University. After serving as a biochemist in the U.S. Army from 1973 to 1975, he began his career as a technical service nutritionist at International Minerals and Chemicals Corp. He subsequently held various leadership roles, including director of nutrition at Bayshore Foods and breeder hatchery manager at Country Pride Foods. From 1982 to 1995, Dr. Wicker worked at Degussa, where he played a pivotal role in advancing the use of amino acids in poultry nutrition.
Since joining Fieldale Farms in 1995, Dr. Wicker has been instrumental in establishing innovative programs, including a grower program known for its low turnover and effective results. He continues to collaborate with experts to improve broiler production sustainability and reduce feed costs.
Dr. Wicker has been actively involved in various industry organizations, including the South Carolina Poultry Federation Board of Directors, the National Chicken Council (NCC) and advisory roles at Clemson University and the University of Georgia's Department of Poultry Science. He currently serves on the executive board of the South Carolina Department of Agribusiness Center for Research and Entrepreneurship Competitive Grant Program.
