Jun 20, 2019 - Young People in Poultry: Lee Hubbard

Lee Hubbard

Breeder and Hatchery Manager, Sanderson Farms

Lee Hubbard grew up in Laurel, Mississippi, spending time outdoors at his grandfather's cattle and timber farm. He attended Jones College and received his associate degree in agriculture, then went on to earn his business administration degree from William Carey University. After graduation, Hubbard accepted the opportunity to join Sanderson Farms as a trainee.

'As a trainee, I was able to learn every aspect of the company,' said Hubbard. 'There were lots of long days and hard work, but it was time well spent, because it set me up to be successful.'

A 10-year employee of Sanderson Farms, Hubbard currently holds the title of breeder hatchery manager. In this role, he is responsible for producing the best quality chick possible, so that broilers are ready to be processed once grown to market weight.

'Every day is a new challenge,' said Hubbard. 'Being in and out of the chicken houses and hatcheries, I see how the birds are always changing. It's rewarding to learn something new every day to improve the process and continue to get better at what we do.'

Hubbard appreciates that his job allows him the freedom to be outdoors and hands-on, away from a traditional office setting. While the hours are long and the days can be hard, he says it always pays off.

'I'd tell any young person that it is possible to build a great career in the poultry industry,' said Hubbard. 'The time you put into your work will be rewarded. Sanderson Farms definitely looks hard at the effort and initiative you put in to learn.'