Beef Blurb

Shelby Diehm

director of youth activities, director of marketing & communications

Many Miles and Many Places

January and the first few days in February were a whirlwind of activities. I spent more time on the road than I did at home due to our many work events. From Cattlemen’s Congress in Oklahoma City to Fort Worth Stock Show and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Convention in Houston, Texas, many miles were traveled.

The NCBA Convention is always a highlight of the year for cattlemen. It provides an opportunity for them to gather for education and socialization while taking a break from their daily responsibilities. This year the International Genetics Solution partners were all in the same area with an IGS booth that caught attendees’ attention. The “breed alley” was complimented by many cattlemen because it gave them a chance to visit multiple breeds and learn more about that they could offer. The American Shorthorn Association booth was highly complimented by fellow breed associations and cattlemen, many stopped by to have a conversation about the Shorthorn breed. We even had two cattle breeders from Hawaii stop to ask us about the advantages of adding Shorthorn to their herd. Next year attendees will gather on February 1-3 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Make plans to join us, we love seeing our Shorthorn breeders at NCBA!

During NCBA, I was invited to the American National Cattlewomen, Inc., Emerging Leaders Luncheon. The cattlewomen invite industry leaders to serve as mentors during a luncheon. Each mentor moved through tables of college students for an eight-minute Q&A session. I answered questions about my college experience and career. It was exciting to talk about how I got to where I am today while also sharing my passion for my job. Many college students asked about our internships and opportunities at ASA after the luncheon was over. It was a great opportunity and I appreciate the ANCW for inviting me to participate.

While the first two months of the year were filled with some great work trips, I am glad to be back home so I can focus on the National Junior Shorthorn Show & Youth Conference. It will be here before we know it! =