The National Junior Angus Association’s (NJAA) annual Raising the Bar conference is a key event where young Angus breeders come together to enhance their breeding, management and business practices. In 2025 the conference will offer new educational opportunities and hands-on experiences. The real question, however, is how attendees will take action after Raising the Bar. The answer lies in using the skills, insights and connections gained from the event to create tangible change on the farm, within the community and across the industry.

A major benefit of the conference is the networking opportunity. Young members meet mentors, industry leaders and fellow breeders who share a passion for Angus cattle. To take action after the conference, junior members should nurture these connections. Maintaining contact with peers and mentors provides ongoing guidance and advice in breeding, business or marketing. 

Joining NJAA committees or participating in local Angus events is another way to stay engaged and grow leadership skills. Networking is an ongoing process that fosters continuous learning and collaboration.

Raising the Bar goes beyond improving cattle quality — it’s about setting higher standards for personal and professional growth. Junior members should reflect on the goals they set at the conference and break them down into actionable steps. This could include improving communication skills, gaining hands-on herd management experience or refining marketing strategies. Setting SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound) goals ensures members stay accountable and track their progress. Whether it’s enhancing participation in beef shows or improving herd genetics, the key is to remain focused on their ambitions.

The conference also builds confidence and broadens perspectives. Upon returning home, junior members can share new ideas with their families and farm teams, whether it’s recommending a new marketing approach, adjusting feeding regimens or exploring innovative breeding technologies. 

As the next generation of agricultural leaders, they play a crucial role in shaping the future of their family businesses and the industry. By advocating for continuous improvement, young breeders contribute to their farm’s long-term success.

Leadership development is another vital aspect. The NJAA conference encourages youth to take active roles in the association and their communities. After the event, junior members can lead by example, whether through volunteering for local agricultural events, engaging in educational outreach or advocating for the beef industry. Running for leadership positions or organizing local events also fosters growth and ensures that members continue to lead with integrity and initiative.

Lastly, taking action means committing to lifelong learning. The Raising the Bar conference serves as a starting point, but junior members should seek additional resources like workshops, webinars and mentorship programs to continue building their expertise. Staying current with industry trends and new technologies allows them to maintain a competitive edge in the ever-evolving agricultural landscape.

The 2025 NJAA Raising the Bar Conference isn’t just a learning event — it’s a platform for action. By setting goals, building relationships and committing to lifelong learning, junior members can bring lasting change to their operations and communities. With a forward-thinking mindset, they are well-equipped to shape the future of the Angus industry.