COLUMBIA, Mo. – The University of Missouri Extension State 4-H Equine Careers Tour, May 19-25, offered 40 Missouri youths the opportunity to explore careers in the equine industry through hands-on learning and professional engagement across Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Canada.

The tour began in Columbia with visits to the MU Equine Teaching Facility and the College of Veterinary Medicine. From there, the group traveled to Walker Standardbred Farm in Sherman, Illinois, and Royal Equine Acres in Topeka, Indiana. A highlight of the trip included a scenic carriage ride and lunch on Mackinac Island, Michigan. Other stops in Michigan included the Midwest Equine Dental Academy, Michigan State University’s Equine Program and the McPhail Equine Performance Center in Lansing.

Participants also visited New Horizons Haflingers before crossing into Canada, where they dined and exchanged ideas with Canadian 4-H members and families, gaining insights into the similarities and differences in Canadian equine practices. To conclude the weeklong tour, participants explored the University of Findlay’s renowned equestrian program, met with the Columbus Mounted Police, toured the World Equestrian Center in Wilmington, Ohio, and experienced live racing at the Scioto Downs racetrack.

As part of the 2025 tour experience, a travel scholarship was made available through the support of the Oertle Family Foundation. Scholarship recipients include:

• Layla Berry, Pike County
• Bryli DeLashmutt, Callaway County
• Delaney Duncan, Cass County
• Creek Gastel, Barton County
• Kamryn Greer, Cass County
• Isabella Menne, Lincoln County
• Raylynn Moore, Linn County
• Allie Moore, Linn County
• Josie Schulte, Osage County
• Blake Steen, Osage County

“The Missouri 4-H Equine Careers Tour continues to be a transformative experience, equipping young leaders with the tools, inspiration and connections to pursue their passions within the agricultural and equine industries,” said Kelsey Fuller, MU Extension state 4-H agriculture educator.

Following the tour, the majority of participants reported an increased awareness of career opportunities in the equine industry and expressed a stronger interest in pursuing higher education in agriculture, Fuller said. Many shared that they now feel more confident discussing agriculture, identifying as advocates and informed consumers. One participant reflected, “I can use everything I’ve learned to shape my future. I’m planning to enter the equine industry, and the more I know, the more I can educate others and help grow the industry.”

Programs offered by Missouri 4-H would not be possible without support from our partners. Major support for Missouri 4-H Agriculture programs was provided by the Missouri 4-H Foundation in partnership with BTC Bank, FCS Financial, MFA Foundation, Missouri Association of Meat Processors, Missouri Farm Bureau Federation, Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council, Smithfield Hog Production and the Hertzog Family.

About Missouri 4-H

Missouri 4-H grows today’s youth and prepares tomorrow’s leaders. With a blend of time-tested traditions and innovative hands-on learning, Missouri youth explore and find their spark in programs ranging from agriculture and conservation to aerospace and career development. Through clubs, programs, camps, in-school and after-school experiences, University of Missouri Extension faculty, staff and thousands of volunteers guide youth in developing essential skills, building confidence and fostering connections. Together, they inspire young people to make a real difference in their communities, their country and the world. To learn more about Missouri 4-H, visit 4h.missouri.edu.

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Equine tour
The 2025 Missouri 4-H Equine Career Tour group at the World Equestrian Center in Wilmington, Ohio.