Working in the dairy industry, I have witnessed some moments I will cherish forever. From being able to watch a calf’s first breath to helping a cow recover from illness, there are many things I have been a part of that helped develop my knowledge of the dairy cow.

However, working with cattle isn’t just about these miracle moments. It is about the passion and connections I have made that have shaped me into the person I am today. Dairy farming worldwide is about people. The people do the work, make tough decisions, and can farm successfully. Working in this industry, I have met amazing people from all walks of life. With unwavering commitment and a strong moral compass, dairy farmers embody the qualities of hard work and goodness.

In New Zealand, specifically the Waikato region, dairy farming is a way of life for everyone here. One of the biggest takeaways I have noticed is how much the dairy cow influences communities in the area. In almost every town you drive through, you will see a store for equipment or supplies you would need on the farm and a milk plant where tanker trucks can go with their loads of milk. In the town of Morrinsville, cow figures line the downtown sidewalks for locals to enjoy. It is evident that the economy, environment, and people are all dependent on the dairy cow.