Employee Spotlight: Joel Jaramillo

Joel Jaramillo plays a vital role at Tosh Farms, leading both the Nursery and GDU (Gilt Development Unit) departments. He is responsible for the daily management and development of weaned gilts selected by the Farrowing department—animals that represent the future of the herd.

Since the early operational stages at Buena Vista, Joel has overseen significant improvements within his departments. Through strong accountability, attention to detail, and consistent management, he has helped achieve better body condition in gilts, faster development timelines, and a notable reduction in mortality rates. His work directly supports long-term genetic improvement and ensures the farm remains productive and competitive.

Joel works closely with the breeding team to ensure only the highest-quality gilts are selected and developed. He understands that performance outcomes reflect daily decisions and leadership, and he takes full ownership of the results within his departments.

One of Joel’s proudest accomplishments is seeing the full development cycle of gilts—from weaning to breeding readiness—and witnessing measurable improvements in sow quality over time. His approach is rooted in patience, consistency, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Joel prioritizes staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. He enjoys going to the gym, participating in sports, running at local parks, and spending time with friends. This balance helps him stay focused and productive on the job. 

Beyond his leadership within the Nursery and GDU departments, Joel is also highly engaged in the Tosh Farms community. He proudly represented the company in the St. Jude Marathon as part of the Tosh Farms team and consistently participates in local company events. Whether it’s a community initiative or company gathering, Joel shows up, supports the team, and represents Tosh Farms with dedication and pride.

Looking ahead, Joel’s goals include further reducing mortality rates, improving gilt selection, strengthening herd genetics, and optimizing management efficiency. His journey at Tosh has been both challenging and rewarding, and he continues to grow personally and professionally while contributing to the long-term success of the operation. 

We are incredibly proud to have Joel as part of the Tosh Farms team. His leadership, consistency, and commitment—both inside the barn and in our community—reflect the values we strive to uphold every day. Joel’s dedication to excellence and his willingness to show up and give his best make a lasting impact on our operation and our culture. We are grateful for his contributions and look forward to his continued growth and success with Tosh Farms.