Petfood Forum recently spoke with Josh Holler, R&D associate scientist, Instinct Pet Food. Josh was selected as a First For Forum Ambassador for the 2026 event.
First For Forum offers pet food professionals who have never attended in the past a chance to attend the show at no cost. Ambassadors are selected through a nomination process.
We are pleased to welcome Josh to Petfood Forum on April 27-29, 2026, in Kansas City, Missouri.
What are you looking forward to the most at Petfood Forum?
Josh: I’m most excited to get exposed to a pet food conference. This will be the first for me. Additionally, I am really looking forward to attending the various talks to learn what some influential industry leaders are working on.
What are you hoping to accomplish at Petfood Forum?
Josh: My goals for attending this conference are to bring some good learnings back to our team and make some new meaningful connections.
Which exhibitors are you looking forward to visiting?
Josh: I don’t know if there are specific exhibitors, but I am looking forward to connecting with some ingredient suppliers to explore more innovative and sustainable ingredients.
Which educational sessions are you looking forward to?
Josh: A couple of the educational sessions I am looking forward to are “The nexus of consistency and Innovation in pet food manufacturing,” by Greg Daniel. As well as the three talks in the Alternative and Sustainable Pet Foods track.
Are you planning to do anything fun while you’re in Kansas City?
Josh: I have a few of my team members that will be attending the conference as well, and we plan to connect with some of our vendors while we are in town.
About Josh:
Josh Holler is an associatescientist on Instinct Pet Food’s Research & Development team, where he works across a variety of pet food formats, including kibble, wet food and freeze-dried products. He has been with the company for over four years. During his first year, Josh served as a production lead while completing his bachelor’s degree in animal science. After earning his degree, he transitioned into the R&D department, where he plays a key role in new product innovation, plant trials and pet food formulation.
Learn more about the other First For Forum Ambassadors