By Blake Jackson
From May 19-25, the University of Missouri Extension guided 40 Missouri 4-H members on the State 4-H Equine Careers Tour, offering an immersive look at horse-related professions across five U.S. states.
The journey opened in Columbia, where participants toured the MU Equine Teaching Facility and College of Veterinary Medicine. Heading east, the group visited Walker Standardbred Farm in Sherman, Illinois, and Royal Equine Acres in Topeka, Indiana, meeting breeders, trainers, and barn managers who detailed daily operations and career paths.
A scenic carriage ride and lunch on Michigan’s Mackinac Island became a tour highlight. While in the state, youths stopped at the Midwest Equine Dental Academy, Michigan State University’s Equine Program and the McPhail Equine Performance Center in Lansing, exploring equine health, biomechanics and research.
Throughout the weeklong itinerary, students engaged in hands-on demonstrations, asked questions of industry experts, and observed both performance and therapeutic settings, broadening their perspective.
In Ohio, the schedule featured New Horizons Haflingers, the University of Findlay’s acclaimed equestrian program, a behind-the-scenes look at the Columbus Mounted Police, a tour of the World Equestrian Center in Wilmington, and live harness racing at Scioto Downs.
Thanks to the Oertle Family Foundation, travel scholarships supported ten attendees: Layla Berry (Pike), Bryli DeLashmutt (Callaway), Delaney Duncan (Cass), Creek Gastel (Jasper), Kamryn Greer (Cass), Isabella Menne (Lincoln), Raylynn Moore and Allie Moore (Linn), Josie Schulte (Osage) and Blake Steen (Osage).
“The Missouri 4-H Equine Careers Tour continues to be a transformative experience, equipping young leaders with the tools, inspiration and connections to pursue their passions within the agricultural and equine industries,” said Kelsey Fuller, MU Extension state 4-H agriculture educator.
After returning home, most travelers reported heightened awareness of equine careers and renewed interest in agricultural degrees. Several noted greater confidence as advocates and informed consumers. As one participant summarized, “I can use everything I’ve learned to shape my future. I’m planning to enter the equine industry, and the more I know, the more I can educate others and help grow the industry.”
Photo Credit: university-of-missouri
Categories: Missouri, Education