June 28, 2021
The U.S. Dairy Education & Training Consortium is a multi-university organization that was established in 2008. The USDETC is designed to meet the educational and training needs of the rapidly expanding dairy industry in the U.S. The program is a unique partnership in collaboration and a pillar of U.S. dairy sustainability between academia, allied industries and dairy producers. The universities involved include Abilene Christian University, Colorado State University, Louisiana State University, New Mexico State University, Oklahoma State University, Tarleton State University, Texas A&M University, Texas Tech University, The University of Arizona, University of Florida, University of Idaho, University of Illinois, University of Missouri, Washington State University and
West Texas A&M University.

Kevyn Thompson, M.S. Agriculture, attended the USDETC in 2018.

"I have had a personal interest in the dairy industry since high school. Further into college, it became one of my greatest passions,"
Thompson said.
There were so many more learning opportunities for Thompson than just the day-in and day-out operations of a dairy. Animal husbandry and the importance of new research were her two big takeaways.
Dairy farmers are constantly learning and researching new technologies and techniques to improve the quality of their operations.

During the USDETC, friendships and connections with professionals in the industry from all across the country were made.

"I wouldn't have traded my experience at USDETC for the world," Thompson said.
Paige Holbrooks is, JR. Agricultural Media and Communication, is interning with Certified Angus Beef (CAB).

What are some of your daily tasks for your internship?
I work in the Producer Communications department here at CAB. I have written news releases, social media copy and email promotions for our upcoming events. I am currently working on a feature story from a ranch in Kansas that I visited in May. I’ve had a hand in several video and photography projects as well. I pick up anything that is on low priority for others on the team that needs to get done, but I don’t ever feel like
“the intern.”

How will your internship help prepare you post-graduation?
Connections… Connections… Connections! Not only have I gained production knowledge, but I have met so many people in the industry. This internship is cultivating my passion even more for the beef industry and sharpening my communication skills designed for beef producers.

Do you have any advice for future students considering an internship?
Apply for the internship no matter what. It's better to be told no than to not even give yourself a shot and miss so many opportunities!
Texas 4-H Ambassador
Equine Short Course
The Texas 4-H Equine Ambassador Short Course took place June 12-15. This event was coordinated by Dr. John Pipkin, Regents Professor and Director of Equine Industry Program, along with workshops, industry insight and help with hosting from many others in the
Department of Agricultural Sciences.

All 20 Texas 4-H Equine Ambassadors took part in workshops educating them on equine dentistry, general health, dissection, breeding, reproduction and nutrition. College preparation and professionalism meetings were included during the short course. The Ambassadors got to experience the Texas Panhandle by traveling to Scivally Ranch,
Fults Ranch and 6666 Ranch.

Thank you, Texas 4-H Equine Ambassadors and
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension! We hope you enjoyed your time here at West Texas A&M University!
If anyone tells you that a certain person speaks ill of you,
do not make excuses about what is said of you but answer,
"He was ignorant of my other faults, else he would not have
mentioned these alone."
-Epictetus