“Kids these days aren’t what they used to be.”

Maybe that’s true in some circles, but let me tell you what I see from my vantage in the Angus business. 

When I look at the youth of this breed, I see hardworking young people with clear ideas about where they’re going and what they want to contribute. They are curious minds not only asking, “How did you do that?” but, “Why?” 

They are taking advantage of the resources they have at their fingertips. I have no doubt Angus juniors are more connected, more well-studied and more confident than I ever was at their age. In fact, I often say I’m glad I wasn’t competing against the youth now, or I’d have never stood a chance!

The National Junior Angus Association (NJAA) is top of mind for me as I write this column and prepare to head to Tulsa, Okla., for the National Junior Angus Show (NJAS) June 28 to July 5. 

Every year as I walk through the barns, I’m always reminded of the value programs like NJAA have. From the physical work in the stalls to the mental work of preparing for a competition, these juniors are learning about the industry, the animals and themselves. The NJAA gives the next generation exposure to the beef business, and in many cases that turns into lifelong involvement with our Association. 

As I talk with breeders on how they got their start, so many times the story begins with, “I bought my first Angus heifer…” and it ties back to a memory in the show ring.  

One of my favorite parts of the week will no doubt be getting to host our young Angus enthusiasts on The Angus Conversation — Junior Takeover. I get to hear firsthand from youth with unique perspectives, and it’s really encouraging to learn how they see the challenges of the future and their ability to meet them. I’d urge you to tune into those special-edition episodes, available anywhere you get your podcasts or by visiting www.TheAngusConversation.com.

To the Angus parents: By the time many of you read this, the show may be over and the results already tallied. Regardless of who came home with a banner and who didn’t, you should know that your kids are winning. They are learning life skills that will take them into whatever they chose to pursue. 

If that’s the Angus business, we are certainly better for it. If it’s another avenue, then we’re glad we have Angus ambassadors out in their part of the world. 

Thank you for investing in these experiences with them. 

As we look ahead to so many unknowns in our future, hard questions, growing Angus demand and continuing to make our living with Angus cattle, I’m confident we’re growing a crop of young people right now who will be well-equipped to help us get there. 

So, maybe kids these days aren’t what they used to be, but if you’re talking about our Angus kids, I’d take that in the most positive sense of that statement.