Dr. David Wicker, Vice-president of live operations at Fieldale Farms Corporation received the 2024 Distinguished Poultry Industry Career Award from the Poultry Science Association, sponsored by USPOULTRY.  The award recognizes contributions by industry leaders over an extended period.

Nath Morris president of USPOULTRY noted, “We are delighted to honor industry leaders as embodied by David.  He has devoted numerous years of his career to finding solutions for poultry and egg industry issues including improved broiler production and sustainability.”

Dr. Wicker earned a BS from Clemson University followed by service in the U.S. Army 1973-1975. He gained valuable industry experience as a technical service nutritionist.  Dr. Wicker joined Fieldale Farms Corporation in 1975 as Director of Nutrition and Technical Services advancing to Director of Live Operations in 2010.  Dr. Wicker has served as a Director of the South Carolina Poultry Federation since 2006 and has contributed to the Grow-out and Animal Welfare Committees of the National Chicken Council.  He has served as an Adjunct Professor at Clemson University and the University of Georgia. 

Dr. Wicker has advanced poultry production, welfare and food safety through his contributions applying science to practical challenges throughout his career.  He has always been been willing to assist younger scientists and poultry professionals and has guided the careers of many current industry leaders.