The Angus breed and the Association have a storied history in the United States, one most in the industry are familiar with. While we owe much of Angus’ current market position to those who came before, it is exciting to recognize there is a significant number of new members who will be a part of writing the next chapter for the breed. 

Our recent Member Survey showed, as much at 23% of those who responded have been members for less than five years. We recognize how diverse that group is in age, background, experience and vision for their operation, and we are here to support each in their unique goals. As an organization, we try to provide continued education that helps not only our lifelong members but also those new to the breed or learning to navigate Angus tools.  

Another great resource is www.Angus.org, which features information about Angus University and the National Junior Angus Association (NJAA).

The website can also connect you with Member Services representatives. 

Even with all these resources, we decided we could do more. In December the Association welcomed 20 participants to the first Herdsman Bootcamp. This event was brought about by the generosity of the Angus Foundation.

The attendees were diverse in their Angus experience. Several participants host annual production sales, many were brand new to the breed, and a few managers were starting positions at their operations.  

The curriculum was based on participation responses from the application process. This valuable information helped build the structure of Herdsman Bootcamp to provide information to meet participants’ needs. A great way to look at this is to think in the terms, “I bought a registered cow … now what?”

We started with a tutorial on memberships and what would best fit their operation, as well as defining agents and partnerships. The next step was all things AAA Login. We went over the process of registering an animal, transferring an animal, data entry, billing preferences, along with advantages of electronically stored certificates.

Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI) was part of the process as well.  An overview from AGI President, Kelli Retallick-Riley, included the history of AGI and how it relates to the American Angus Association. Retallick-Riley also discussed the current research projects AGI is involved in.

The collection of DNA samples and types of collection methods were explained, including how to order tests, submit samples and view results. Suspense items were highlighted and how to resolve them seamlessly was a popular portion of the meeting.  

Angus Media was the next stop.  A Pasture to Publish^SM learning experience was presented from both a buyer’s and seller’s perspective. A key feature was search options for finding new genetics, as well as the advantages of using Pasture to Publish to design your own book and all the private treaty options available. Digital and print advertising options were also presented. 

The conclusion of the event was getting participants acquainted with all the services the Association can provide to our commercial buyers in the form of customer service and premiums paid for Angus genetics through AngusLink^® and GeneMax^® Advantage™.

Herdsman Bootcamp provided a hands-on application from all departments along with a tour of the office and a trip to the Brand Store with a gift provided by the Angus Foundation.

We are already in the planning stages for next year, and we are excited to make this an annual event. The enrollment process for Herdsman Bootcamp will be available this fall as we finalize dates for this year’s program. Please watch Angus.org and our communication channels for dates and enrollment.

Editor’s note: For more information, please contact the Association Member Services Department at 816-383-5100 or email llanders@angus.org.