As I reflect on this winter, it is encouraging to see the youth in our industry and their passion for this way of life. Branding season is in full swing for many on the West Coast, and there is nothing better than seeing kids laugh and learn during this annual gathering for the ranching community. 

I was fortunate to rope with a few of these buckaroos at a recent branding, and the grit and determination showcased was incredibly inspiring. It never fails to make me smile to see the branding slow down near the end, and everyone is focused on helping kids learn with the last set of calves. 

Teaching branding etiquette, dallying, horsemanship and the value of an honest day’s work was a major milestone in my childhood. It is so special to pay it forward to the next generation in the ranching community. For me, this is what our industry is all about. 

I’m often asked as a college instructor how I feel about this next generation and if I’m nervous about the future. I always respond unequivocally that I’m not worried about the future of agriculture. 

I truly believe our industry’s greatest strength is our commitment to the development of our youth. This is evident at stock shows, brandings, and 4-H and FFA events across the country. 

I recently attended the 40th annual Cal Poly Western Bonanza Livestock Show. I was encouraged to see so many of my amazing students working their tails off to put on this show for the next generation of stockmen and women. It was also amazing to see the tenacity of the exhibitors and their families dedicated to showcasing their cattle, come rain or shine. 

It was a special treat to see the Judge sisters, Ashley Wagner (Judge) and Jessie Judge, return to San Luis Obispo county to judge the cattle rings. I was struck by something Ashley said over the microphone as she was choosing her champions. She discussed how the Western Bonanza show and the county fairgrounds helped raise her. This statement struck me dead in my tracks as I held my 2-year-old son and watched the champion drive. 

I talked about this column and the show with the legendary Randy Perry that night at the anniversary event. It was refreshing to catch up and remind myself how investing in our youth development programs pays off. This was something I wanted to showcase to the readership of the Angus Journal. There is no question these youth development programs help raise kids. Our industry produces tough, strong and resilient kids who are the backbone of America. 

For any youth reading this column, I encourage you to keep showing up and giving it your all. The world is run by those who show up. I also encourage you to be invested in the industry. Attend cattlemen’s meetings and learn as much as you can. Be a constant learner, and don’t take this lifestyle for granted. 

Whenever I judge cattle shows, I want our young people to know current events in the industry. To me, the best showman in the ring is the one who can show and tell. I always ask exhibitors questions because I want them to have the knowledge and confidence to communicate effectively. These skills help our young people stand out amongst their peers. I encourage you to be willing to share your knowledge and skills to those struggling and learning in the washracks and blocking chutes. Be mindful you are being watched by the younger generation. Invest in yourself and this industry, and the sky is the limit. 

For parents and family, please continue to invest in our youth in any conceivable way. Industry events shape these future leaders. I encourage all of you to attend and serve in your local county fairs, county cattlemen’s boards and school boards, and invest in our communities. Be a bridge to people outside of agriculture. We need agriculturalists engaged now more than ever. 

I often have students with no background in the beef industry, who end up being the strongest advocates of them all. There is no question that the western lifestyle and culture is having its moment in popular culture. Whether that moment is fleeting or long-term, we will still be here. It’s time to seize the reins of this moment and remind our nation that this industry is so special. Don’t be afraid to share your lifestyle with others because you never know how much that can mean to someone. 

As we all start preparing for spring, I encourage you to continue to find ways to invest in our youth. As always, be well, and God bless the American rancher.