Youth Programs

​Junior Fed Beef Challenge

The TCFA Junior Fed Beef Challenge was designed to encourage young people to gain practical experience in feeding commercial beef cattle. This program stresses the importance of proper animal husbandry and financial management. Over the last 25 years, TCFA has introduced hundreds of young people to the cattle feeding industry through the Junior Fed Beef Challenge.

Click here to view the 2024 Junior Fed Beef Challenge Winners

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FEedyard Camp

TCFA’s Junior Fed Beef Career & Leadership Program, commonly known as “Feedyard Camp,” is designed for incoming high school juniors and seniors who have an interest in pursuing a career in the beef industry.

The four-day camp gives students an in-depth look into all aspects of the beef industry, including managing day-to-day operations on a feedyard. Upon conclusion of the program, students may participate in a job shadow program with a local feedyard.

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FEEDYARD TECHNICIAN PROGRAM

The TCFA Feedyard Technician Program is designed to equip high school students with the knowledge and skills necessary to enter the fed beef industry upon graduation from high school. The program allows teachers to utilize existing class courses and learning experiences, such as agricultural vocation classes, to meet the program’s requirements and ensure success among students.

Two distinct career paths are offered through the program:

• Cattle Handling and Care
• Machinery Operation, Maintenance and Repair

The program is a collaboration between TCFA, West Texas A&M University and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Services. For more information on curriculum and enrollment qualifications, visit amarillo.tamu.edu/feedyard-technician-program.