Michael Smith Shares His Vision for Young Cattle Producers
Earlier this year, Michael Smith joined the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association as a new staff member. Now several months into the role, Smith is reflecting on his experiences and outlining ambitious goals for the Young Cattlemen’s Leadership Program (YCLP).
A Focus on Statewide Networking for Young Producers
Smith emphasized that his top priority is strengthening the statewide network for young cattle producers. Through YCLP, he aims to foster deeper relationships not just within local county associations, but across all corners of Alabama.
“Getting these young folks from all over the state to meet folks, not just in their county association, but actually all over the state,” Smith explained. “That will help build that network of producers, especially amongst younger producers.”
The goal, he said, is to give the next generation of cattlemen and cattlewomen a support system and sounding board as they grow within the industry and the association.
Strengthening the Grassroots of Alabama’s Beef Industry
At its core, YCLP serves a twofold mission:
- Empower younger members with leadership tools and industry connections
- Reinforce the county-level foundations that ultimately support the entire state association.
By investing in young leaders now, Smith believes the program will help ensure a strong, united future for Alabama’s cattle industry.
“As they continue growing in the industry and in the association, it will help them have kind of a sounding board and folks to bounce ideas off of.”
Leading by Example: An Alumni’s Perspective
As a former participant of YCLP himself, Smith brings first-hand experience and passion to his new role. He credits the program with providing critical insight and growth opportunities—and now he’s committed to passing that value along.
“As an alumni of it myself, I’ve been able to experience the good that comes with that program. And I just want to help continue that and help push that forward.”
A Promising Start with the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association
Since stepping into the position, Smith said his experience has been overwhelmingly positive. From meeting dedicated team members to learning the inner workings of the organization, the role has been both exciting and educational.
“It’s been incredible… getting to peek a little bit behind the scenes and see all the work that goes into making the association actually work,” he said. “Learning a lot in a hurry and still got a lot more to learn, but so far it’s been better than I expected.”
As he continues to grow in his role, Michael Smith is poised to be a key driver in cultivating Alabama’s next generation of cattle industry leaders.
Reported by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.