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May 28 – June 4, 2026


Since 1980, the Young Cattlemen’s Conference (YCC) has been a premier leadership development program, shaping the next generation of beef industry leaders. With more than 1,000 graduates, YCC alumni have gone on to serve on industry committees, councils, and boards, many have risen to national leadership positions at NCBA, breed associations and other industry organizations.

YCC is an immersive experience, offering participants unparalleled networking opportunities, connecting attendees with top industry professionals, policymakers and fellow emerging leaders. Through exclusive behind-the-scenes access, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of the entire beef supply chain while also engaging in the powerful grassroots advocacy process.

A highlight of the program is the opportunity to engage directly with elected leaders on Capitol Hill, advocating for policies that impact America’s cattle and beef producers. If you’re passionate about the future of the beef industry and eager to expand your leadership skills, YCC is your gateway to making a lasting impact.

The 2026 YCC program will take place May 28 through June 4, 2026, and include time in Colorado, Iowa/South Dakota, Ohio and Washington, D.C. For more information about the selection process, please contact your NCBA-affiliated state or breed association. 


2025 YCC Headshots

Thank you to our sponsors!


Farm Credit is proud to support the NCBA’s Young Cattlemen’s Conference. Today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders. Farm Credit remains dedicated to cultivating young leaders to help prepare them for successful careers in the agricultural sector.

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Five Rivers is proud to support the Young Cattlemen’s Conference (YCC) and its mission to develop informed, engaged leaders for the beef industry. We believe that producers who understand the interdependence of all segments of the industry are essential to its long-term sustainability. YCC brings together young industry leaders from diverse backgrounds and experiences, creating an environment where lasting relationships and professional alliances are formed. Participants are exposed to areas of the beef industry they may not encounter in their day-to-day operations, broadening their perspective and understanding. This increased awareness of the challenges and opportunities across the industry fosters greater alignment and collaboration. A more unified beef industry is better positioned to serve consumers effectively and support long-term profitability for the families who depend on it.

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Five Rivers Cattle Feeding

John Deere’s support of NCBA’s Young Cattlemen’s Conference reflects our commitment to strengthening the future of the beef industry and the producers who sustain it. By engaging emerging producers, we gain meaningful insight into the evolving challenges facing livestock operations while supporting the development of future industry leaders. This partnership helps build long term relationships and informs how we continue to design equipment and solutions that serve the real world needs of beef producers across operations of all sizes.

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John Deere 9.29.17

Merck Animal Health is proud to sponsor NCBA’s Young Cattlemen’s Conference. With a rich history of innovation and a commitment to research for more than 70 years, Merck Animal Health is dedicated to preserving and improving the health, well-being and performance of animals and the people who care for them. Guided by The Science of Healthier Animals®, we offer producers and veterinarians one of the widest ranges of veterinary pharmaceuticals, vaccines and health management solutions and services as well as an extensive suite of connected technology that includes identification, traceability and monitoring products. Visit MAHCattle.com to learn more.

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Tyson is a long-time sponsor of the Young Cattlemen's Conference.

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"As individuals, we have limited resources

to aid in keeping the "wolves" such as government, environmental and radical groups, off of our door steps. NCBA is there every day protecting our industry."

Mark Spurgin, Nebraska Rancher