Hailey
A new class of future agricultural leaders has officially graduated from the Young Stockmen’s Academy (YSA) in 2025, with several standout participants from Western Kansas.
This prestigious program, operated annually by the Kansas Livestock Association, provides young adults with hands-on leadership development, livestock industry training, and real-world exposure to beef, dairy, agribusiness, and policy systems.
The 2025 class marks a significant milestone with expanding participation from rural Western Kansas communities—helping strengthen the next generation of livestock producers and advocates.
What is the Young Stockmen’s Academy?
The Young Stockmen’s Academy is a year-long, four-session educational program designed for young adults in their 20s who are involved in the livestock and agriculture sector.
The academy focuses on building skills in:
- Livestock production systems
- Agribusiness and beef marketing
- Public policy and industry advocacy
- Leadership and communication
- Animal health and food safety
Since its launch in 2006, YSA has graduated more than 370 members, shaping a strong statewide network of well-trained beef industry leaders.
Western Kansas Participants Shine in 2025
The 2025 graduating class included 20 young livestock producers, with a significant group coming from Western Kansas—one of the strongest beef-producing regions in the state.
Western Kansas Graduates
| Graduate Name | Hometown | Region |
|---|---|---|
| Kyler Berning | Leoti | Western Kansas |
| Walker Clawson | Meade | Western Kansas |
| Jenna Fitzsimmons | Cunningham | Western Kansas |
| Jamie Schaake | Garden City | Western Kansas |
| Caleb Volkman | Hugoton | Western Kansas |
| Jenna Hlavaty | Cimarron | Western Kansas |
| Wyatt Woods | Cimarron | Western Kansas |
| Camryn Ricker | Ford | Western Kansas |
These graduates represent farms, ranches, feedyards, and agriculture businesses that form a crucial backbone of Kansas’ livestock economy.
Inside the Four Training Sessions
The YSA program spans four intensive sessions across the year, each focusing on a different segment of the livestock and agriculture industry.
1. Leadership & Policy Session – Topeka
Participants learn about:
- The state legislative process
- Public policy affecting the livestock sector
- Communication and advocacy training
- Industry issues, regulatory systems, and organizational structure
This session prepares them to become strong voices for agriculture.
2. Agribusiness & Marketing Session – Kansas City Area
Graduates receive training on:
- Beef marketing systems
- Animal health technology
- Supply chain operations
- Meat processing and distribution
This helps them understand how cattle move from ranch to consumer.
3. Field Tours – Beef & Dairy Operations
Participants tour:
- Cow-calf ranches
- Feedyards
- Dairy farms
- Seedstock operations
- Veterinary and nutrition facilities
This hands-on experience allows them to see how different production systems operate in real time.
4. Livestock Leadership Experience – KLA Convention
During the final session, the class attends the Kansas Livestock Association’s annual convention, where they:
- Meet industry leaders
- Join committee meetings
- Learn how policies are developed
- Participate in leadership discussions
Graduation is held during this convention, allowing participants to network with top Kansas producers and decision-makers.
Why This Graduation Matters for Western Kansas
The completion of the 2025 program is especially impactful for Western Kansas because:
- The region relies heavily on beef and dairy production
- Rural counties need young leaders prepared for modern challenges
- Graduates return with stronger skills in management, animal health, marketing, and advocacy
- It ensures the sustainability of local agriculture and family operations
These young graduates will help shape the future of Kansas livestock production, workforce development, and agricultural policy.
The 2025 graduation of Western Kansas residents from the Young Stockmen’s Academy highlights a powerful investment in the future of the livestock industry.
With new knowledge in marketing, policy, animal health, and leadership, these young producers are prepared to guide their communities and strengthen Kansas agriculture for years to come.
Their success represents not just personal achievement—but the continued growth and stability of one of the state’s most important industries.