38 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN April/May 2026 PEOPLE Invaluable Experience 2026 NC YCC Participants Reflect on the Start of Their Two-Year Program MALINA LINDSTROM | NEBRASKA CATTLEMEN YOUNG CATTLEMEN’S CONNECTIONS CLASS OF 2026 The 2026 Young Cattlemen’s Connections (YCC) class kicked off our two years of training and development with a weeklong trip at the end of January. The 11 individuals in this year’s class enjoyed an action-packed week filled with tours, good conversation and networking. From touring industry facilities to exploring emerging technologies and beef industry policy, there were endless opportunities to foster learning, discuss industry issues and establish real-life relationships. Touring Industry Facilities With many tours throughout the week, we were given a full-circle perspective on our industry. Cargill Schuyler allowed us to see the beef harvest process up close and the causes of plant inefficiencies that may be tied to our decisions earlier in the cattle cycle. Whether you are a cow-calf producer, in animal health or in the feedlot sector, understanding the harvest process is critical knowledge. A stop at Samson, LLC gave us a glimpse into the world of third-party verification for program cattle. This spurred conversation about the value of enrolling program cattle and program verification in the future. Sysco Lincoln completed our tour of the beef industry. Sitting down with their head protein chefs, we discussed opportunities to add value to beef cuts on the restaurant level, seasonal demand and the food service industry’s experience with beef. Emerging Technology Emerging technologies in the beef industry were a hot topic on our trip. A stop at the Klosterman Feedlot Innovation Center exposed us to cutting-edge research and facilities that can advance new technology and practices that will benefit the feeding sector. The Combine, an ag tech startup incubator, is working with some top-tier companies with an aim to make the beef industry more efficient. From robotic sorting systems for beef processing plants to autonomous feed trucks, it spurred many ideas in our group as to how new technology can benefit our own operations. Industry Policy Policy was our final focus. At the capitol we were able to meet with the senators from each of our respective districts and hear updates on the bills that Nebraska Cattlemen is watching this session. This served as a great reminder to be aware of policies on the state and national levels that may impact our ability to operate. We also got a crash course on the value of the Beef Checkoff and each dollar that is contributed. This was an eye-opening look into the critical work the Nebraska Beef Council does to keep beef at the center of the plate. From hosting beef industry tours and trainings for chefs, dieticians and social media influencers, to launching beef ad campaigns, they are doing important work. As young leaders, we recognize there will always be gaps to fill and problems to solve. Programs like YCC, made possible by Nebraska Cattlemen and the generous support of industry sponsors, give us the tools, relationships and broader understanding needed to help keep this industry strong. The future of the beef industry directly impacts our own futures, and it is our responsibility to stay engaged, informed and willing to grow. We are grateful to Nebraska Cattlemen and the sponsors who invest in this program and in the next generation of leaders. Our class is excited for what lies ahead and the continued opportunities to learn, grow and serve our industry. ~NC~ THE VALUE OF YCC Rudy Pooch | Nebraska Cattlemen Young Cattlemen’s Connections class of 2026 While the tours and conversations were impactful, what stood out to me most was the value of perspective. The beef industry is vast and constantly evolving – from technology advancements and shifting markets to policy changes and consumer demand. I applied to YCC because I knew it would challenge me to stay current, expand my knowledge and step outside of my own bubble. Through my work in livestock marketing, close involvement with seedstock operations and ownership in the livestock supplement space, I am always looking for opportunities to sharpen my leadership skills and build connections across all segments of the industry. YCC is truly what you make of it. During just a few days together, our class represented cow-calf producers, feedlot operators, finance professionals, seedstock breeders and more. Simply having honest conversations with other young leaders facing similar challenges was invaluable. The same industry pressures affect all of us, and having the chance to brainstorm, exchange ideas and hear different perspectives opens our eyes to new ways of thinking. One my biggest takeaways was seeing how every stop connected to the next to paint one complete picture. The tours reminded me that bringing beef from pasture to plate involves far more than just production and harvest. There are countless moving parts working behind the scenes to advocate for producers, educate consumers and drive demand. It reinforced the idea that our industry truly is a well-oiled machine, and every sector plays a role in its success.
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