The National Youth Cattle Working Contest is a premier competition designed to educate, challenge, and inspire the next generation of leaders in the beef industry. Through a series of regional and state-level contests, youth competitors demonstrate their cattle handling skills, teamwork, and knowledge in real-world scenarios that reflect industry standards.

This contest is a collaborative, multi-state effort supported by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and grounded in the best practices outlined by the Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program. All contest activities follow BQA guidelines to promote safe, efficient, and humane livestock handling.

Core partners include Virginia Tech, Mississippi State University, the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association, the University of Georgia, and North Carolina State University, along with dedicated beef cattle industry supporters, whose contributions help provide facilities, cattle, awards, educational materials, and hands-on learning experiences for participants. Their commitment ensures that youth have the opportunity to engage with real-world beef industry practices and build valuable career skills.

Together, these partners and sponsors are equipping youth with the knowledge, confidence, and industry awareness needed to become strong advocates and future professionals in the beef industry. Top teams from each participating state earn the opportunity to compete at the national level—celebrating excellence in stockmanship and stewardship among youth from across the country.