This year’s Raising the Bar conference challenged and taught many National Junior Angus Association (NJAA) members to think bigger about their future careers in agriculture while building practical skills they can carry back to their own Angus operations. 

From hands-on learning experiences to conversations with many industry professionals, Raising the Bar lived up to its name and brought together many junior members. Many attendees were immersed in opportunities designed to push them outside their comfort zones and to create new leaders at Iowa State University.

One of the conference’s main highlights was the opportunity to experience Iowa State University’s agricultural programs. Under the direction of Jodi Sterle, attendees explored the animal science department, learning about topics such as nutrition, genetics and reproduction and how these influence innovation in the beef industry. Participants also learned more about carcass evaluation, processing and consumer expectations for meat quality during a tour of the Iowa State Meat Laboratory. To connect livestock production, product quality and management for future success, juniors attended a workshop presented by Kevin Kimle on the significance of agricultural business and entrepreneurship.

Attendees also explored the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine’s facilities and participate in a panel discussion with current veterinary students. This unique experience offered more insight into career opportunities in veterinary medicine and the role veterinarians play in sustaining livestock health and production.

Juniors expanded their experiences beyond campus by exploring a variety of career areas across Iowa, including Nichols Cryo Genetics, Collison Embryo and Veterinary Services, Vermeer, High Point Genetics, and Hoover Angus. Each stop offered a remarkable look into different parts of the industry, allowing attendees to see how diverse pieces of agriculture connect and support one another. These tours offered a glimpse of the expertise and effort that go into successful programs, while also allowing juniors to connect with industry professionals, ask questions and gain valuable insight into potential career paths.

These visits allowed juniors to connect their classroom knowledge with real-world experience across many agricultural careers by inspiring new interests and strengthening existing goals. These tours had a significant influence on juniors by helping them think more deeply about their futures and their role in the Angus industry.

The 2026 Raising the Bar conference made a lasting impression on many NJAA members, leaving them with new experiences, stronger connections, and a clearer sense of direction for their future in agriculture. Conferences such as Raising the Bar and Leaders Engaged in Angus Development (LEAD) are key to fostering junior involvement by providing real opportunities to learn, connect and grow. 

By bringing together education, hands-on experience and industry networking, these events continue to shape confident, engaged leaders ready to make an difference in the Angus industry.