WCMA Federal Advocacy Fly-In 2026
Advocate for Dairy Processing — Where Decisions Are Made
Federal policies influence every corner of dairy processing — from food safety regulations and labeling requirements to export opportunities, workforce availability, and nutrition programs. WCMA’s Federal Advocacy Fly-In provides members with a powerful opportunity to engage directly with the policymakers and regulators shaping these decisions.
By participating, you will help ensure that federal leaders understand the real-world impacts of their actions and decisions on dairy processors, dairy farmers, employees, and the rural communities that depend on our industry. Your voice strengthens the entire dairy supply chain.
What to Expect
Over two highly structured days in Washington, D.C., WCMA will coordinate meetings, briefings, and networking opportunities designed specifically for dairy processing leaders. Participants will receive policy background materials and talking points to ensure productive, confident conversations with federal officials.
Day 1: Federal Agency Engagement & Industry Networking
Participants are encouraged to fly-in to Washington, D.C. on the morning of May 12. At a lunch briefing, we'll coordinate our messages, and then spend the afternoon meeting with senior officials from key federal agencies responsible for dairy policy, regulation, and trade, including:
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U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
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U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
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Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR)
These discussions will focus on issues critical to dairy processors such as food safety requirements, labeling, export markets, and regulatory priorities.
Our full afternoon of advocacy will be followed by an evening networking dinner with fellow WCMA members. Attendees will also enjoy a guided evening tour of Washington’s iconic monuments and memorials - an opportunity to connect informally while experiencing the nation’s capital.
Day 2: Capitol Hill Advocacy
On our second day, participants will take their message directly to Congress. WCMA is arranging meetings with members of the U.S. House and Senate, as well as staff from key agricultural committees. Topics will include regulatory policy, trade, workforce challenges, nutrition programs, and other priorities affecting dairy processors.
Following Capitol Hill meetings, participants will reconvene for a closing lunch and advocacy recap before departing Washington, D.C.
Location & Accommodations
WCMA has secured a room block at:
Yotel Washington DC
415 New Jersey Ave. NW
Washington, D.C.
Located within walking distance of Capitol Hill, the hotel offers convenient access to both federal agencies and congressional offices.
Despite one of Washington’s busiest travel seasons, WCMA has arranged a special member rate of $405 per night. Participants are responsible for making their own reservations using the WCMA room block (available through April 11). Reservation details and booking code will be provided upon registration.
Registration Fee
$349 per person
Included with Registration
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Coordinated meetings with federal agency officials
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Scheduled Capitol Hill meetings with congressional offices
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Comprehensive policy briefing materials and talking points
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Welcome lunch and policy briefing
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Networking dinner
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Evening monuments and memorials tour
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Breakfast briefing on Capitol Hill
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Closing lunch and advocacy recap
Not Included
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Airfare
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Ground transportation to/from airports
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Hotel accommodations (discounted WCMA room block available)
Who Should Attend
This event is designed for dairy processing executives, plant leaders, policy staff, and other decision-makers who want to play an active role in shaping federal policies affecting the industry. No prior advocacy experience is required - WCMA will provide guidance and support throughout the program.
Make an Impact
Your participation ensures that lawmakers and regulators hear directly from the people who produce, process, and deliver dairy products every day. Join WCMA in Washington, D.C. and help advance policies that support a strong, competitive dairy processing industry.
Space is limited - so register now to secure your place. Have questions? Contact WCMA Senior Director of Programs & Policy Rebekah Sweeney.
