Nebraska Cattlemen Selects Young Cattlemen’s Connections Class of 2026

Eleven Emerging Leaders Chosen

Lincoln, Neb. (November 18, 2025) – Nebraska Cattlemen is pleased to announce the Young Cattlemen’s Connections (YCC) Class of 2026. The selection committee chose eleven emerging leaders for the prestigious two-year program to help these participants develop a solid foundation of industry knowledge and to strengthen the future of Nebraska’s beef industry.

This program is made possible by our generous sponsors Farm Credit Services of America, Neogen, and the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation.

Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation president, Loren Berger, stated, "We are excited to begin investing in our next class of YCC participants who are a very impressive group of young people with a hunger to learn about the various sectors of the beef cattle industry. The Class of 2026 will undoubtedly leave this program with sharper leadership skills, greater industry knowledge, and a strong understanding of what it takes to be a great cattle producer."

Young Cattlemen’s Connections Class of 2026

Roger Carpenter, Whitman

Ted Fanta, Plainview

Angie Huwaldt, Randolph

Garret Johnson, Grand Island

Reece Krueger, Lexington

Malina Lindstrom, Elm Creek

Rudy Pooch, Tecumseh

Jason Rainforth, Wisner

Ethan Schroeder, Hebron

Marde Thomas, Hastings

Dylan Vock, Lincoln

During the two-year program, YCC members are provided with extensive communication training, given the opportunity to tour multiple Nebraska-based agriculture production facilities, and trained on how to navigate state agencies and legislative processes.

To learn more about the Young Cattlemen’s Connections Program, please visit www.nebraskacattlemen.org.