The information below has been supplied by dairy marketers and other industry organizations. It has not been edited, verified or endorsed by Hoard’s Dairyman.

Applications for the newly created Wisconsin Beef Leadership Institute are now open and will be accepted through March 1. Those selected to participate will complete a series of educational sessions designed to shape local advocates. They will gain skillsets to enhance their communication skills and diversify their knowledge of the beef industry. These leaders will use their voices to extend the reach and impact of the Wisconsin Beef Council and Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association.

The Wisconsin Beef Council is a producer-led, non-profit organization funded by the $1.00 per head Beef Checkoff. Through the Wisconsin Beef Council, participants will learn how to educate about the state’s beef industry from farm to fork with seminars that focus on sharing your story, understanding the nutritional value of beef, and working with different types of media.

The Wisconsin Cattlemen’s gives a legislative voice to Wisconsin’s beef producers on a local, regional and national level. The association works closely with many industry partners to maintain a positive business environment for cattlemen through leadership and education. The Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association will guide participants through meeting with their local legislators and discussing key topics impacting the state’s cattle industry.

This collaborative effort will be divided between the two organizations. Each will host separate workshops during the quarterly sessions. After completing a year of training, institute graduates will join an esteemed group of alumni and will be called upon to assist the Wisconsin Beef Council and/or Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association. Such duties may include responding to media requests, identifying local media contacts, being a voice to consumers and educators, encouraging participation in the Masters of Beef Advocacy program, ensuring the voice of the cattle industry is heard, or providing aid for any other needs that may arise.

There is a $100 fee for selected individuals to participate. Hotels, meals, and program costs will be covered by the two organizations. The application and an agenda for the spring training session can be found online at beeftips.com/cattlemens-corner/monthly-checkoff-updates.