The American Meat Science Association (AMSA) is excited to announce that Drs. Stika, Woerner, Foraker, and McKenna will present in the Concurrent Session on “Connecting the Dots: Integrative Approach to Yield Grade Improvement” on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at the 78th Reciprocal Meat Conference (RMC), with support from the Beef Checkoff. This session will examine the evolving need to reassess how red meat yield is measured across the beef industry. Expert speakers will provide insights into the current state of the industry and how it aligns with current market demands. They will also highlight emerging research that advances understanding of carcass composition, as well as the role technology can play in addressing the industry's complex challenges. Attendees will gain a comprehensive view of the historical approach to yield measurement, explore the factors driving today’s renewed focus on precision, and learn about opportunities to adopt more accurate systems that reflect the diverse characteristics of modern cattle populations.

 Aligning the Chain: Industry-Wide Needs for Improvement

 Dr. Stika will offer valuable insights into the importance of this topic across the entire beef supply chain. He will provide historical context and share industry perspectives on the opportunities for implementing more accurate and precise measurement tools. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of this complex issue and the critical need for alignment and collaboration throughout the beef value chain.

 Speaker: John Stika, Ph.D., President, Certified Angus Beef

 What the Data Says: Research Insights into Improved Measurement

Drs. Woerner and Foraker will present cutting-edge research from their respective laboratories focused on measuring carcass composition and the technologies currently in use. Attendees will gain valuable insight into the latest findings and innovative methodologies that are reshaping our understanding of carcass yield potential and informing future advancements in the field.

 Speakers: Dale Woerner, Ph.D., Cargill Endowed Professor, Department of Animal and Food Sciences, Texas Tech University and Blake Foraker, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Animal & Food Sciences, Texas Tech University

 Next-Gen Solutions: Technology and Innovations Shaping the Future of Optimization

 Dr. McKenna will discuss how advancements in data acquisition and analytical methodologies are reshaping yield determination within the beef industry. He will examine the integration of emerging technologies and their role in enabling data-driven, adaptive decision-making across both the production and processing segments of the supply chain.

 Speaker: David McKenna, Ph.D., Director, Marble Technologies