Chad M. Page graduated in 2020 with a PhD in Animal Science. He worked with sheep producers from the beginning of his graduate program. In doing so he found gained a true appreciation for the American Sheep Industry. He says, “it didn’t take long to realize this was an industry I want to be a part of.”
While enrolled in the UWYO Sheep Program he learned aspects of the industry including wool science, nutrition, and proper management, and gained a greater respect for the animal and the industry.
Originally from Chandler, AZ, Chad now works at Utah State University in the Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Science, where he is the Extension Sheep and Goat Specialist. Page says, “I am lucky enough to work with sheep producers across the state of Utah and help increase the efficiency of their operations. Working with producers and students at the university is the greatest highlight of my job.”
Lexi Springer graduated in 2020 with an M.S. in Animal Science. Lexi was raised on her family’s commercial sheep ranch and has wanted to work in the sheep industry since she was a little girl. After finishing her master’s degree, she returned to work as a proud 5th generation sheep rancher for her family’s ranch, Julian Land & Livestock. She also helps to run her husband’s family ranch, Theos Swallow Fork Ranch. Lexi says, “The most valuable lesson I learned from the UWYO Sheep Program was how to think critically and progressively. The sheep industry is small and the only way to keep going is to be progressive and be able to critically analyze the industry.”
Bryce McKenzie graduated with a Bachelor of Science – Agricultural Communication degree in 2019. During his time at UWYO he was a member of Collegiate Wool growers and the Assistant Coach to the University of Wyoming Wool Judging Team. As Bryce reflects on his time in the UWYO Sheep Program he says, “From judging and exhibiting sheep, evaluating wool, sheep production classes, farm tours, etc. The list goes on for the amazing things the University of Wyoming offers for people interested in the sheep and wool industries.” He went on to say the UWYO Sheep Program allowed him to make connections and relationships with industry leaders.
After graduation, Bryce worked at Mountain Meadow Wool Mill, specializing in raw wool intake, custom processing, and the initial phases of the mill process. Currently he works as a 5th generation rancher, running BAM Sheep. and as a youth Development Educator for the University of Wyoming Extension in Johnson County. As he works as youth educator, Bryce is passionate about educating and creating relationships within the sheep industry.
Jaelyn graduated with a Masters of Animal Science degree in 2020. She first became interested in sheep at 9 years old when her stepmother gifted her, a ewe lamb. Jaelyn’s family has been raising sheep for 30 years and direct markets to local consumers. Jaelyn worked with Dr. Stewart during her masters researching lamb quality. After finishing her graduate work, she moved on to become the Sheep Field Specialist at South Dakota State University. Jaelyn took with her a determination to go the extra mile to do what's best for the producers and industry that we serve. Specifically, she works to serve sheep producers in South Dakota helping to ensure their sustainability. She prioritizes collaborations across the country and promotes the growth and longevity of the American sheep industry.
Nicole graduated with a Masters of Animal Science degree in 2019. Nicole grew up on a small hobby farm in southern Ohio where they raised sheep. Nicole worked with Dr. Stewart during her maters, researching meat science and sheep management. Nicole reflected on her time with UWYO Sheep Program saying, “the UWYO sheep program is for individuals who are interested or already active in the sheep industry. I learned how important it is that students, producers, educators and other industry leaders continue to share their knowledge with each other and advocate for the whole industry.” Nicole currently works as the Assistant QA manager at Superior Farms. Nicole’s role in the lamb protein industry assures that consumers will have quality lamb.
Dallin graduated with a Bachelors of Animal Science in 2019. Dallin grew up a showing and judging livestock. While at the University of Wyoming, Dallin was involved with the Wool Judging team and Sheep production courses. As he diligently participated in the Sheep Program he gained knowledge and connections that led him to a career in the wool industry. Dallin currently works at Center of the Nation Wool in Belle Fourche, SD.
