Local participants of Nebraska LEAD Class 44 — Britanie Brewster of Butte, Erika Coulter of Bassett, and Katie Steffen of Ainsworth — spent October 5–7 immersed in a hands-on learning experience across Nebraska’s Panhandle, gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s agricultural systems, economic drivers, and community partnerships. The three-day session highlighted the unique challenges and opportunities that shape western Nebraska.
On Sunday, participants toured the Legacy of the Plains Museum, exploring the diverse cultural influences that shaped cropping systems in the region. At Western Nebraska Community College, President John Dart, shared how the college cultivates a skilled and diverse workforce through innovative programs that extend beyond traditional classrooms. The evening concluded with dinner hosted by Owen and Karen Palm, owners of 21st Century Equipment.
On Monday, the group visited Lake Minatare Recreation Area, where UNL Extension Agriculturalist Gary Stone discussed irrigation systems, snowpack management, and water cycles in the North Platte Valley. At the North Platte Natural Resources District (NRD), General Manager Scott Shaneman, provided insights into over-appropriation challenges, flowmeter requirements, nitrate monitoring, and soil testing.
Fellows also toured Aulick Industries, a local trailer manufacturer specializing in forage trailers. Aulick Industries has launched an innovative educational program that partners with area schools to give students hands-on training in welding, construction, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical work—helping youth gain valuable trade experience and discover local career opportunities.
The day concluded at the Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center (PREEC) with presentations on precision agriculture, AI-driven technology, and data-based crop management, followed by a dinner hosted by ACH Seed and Sondra and Laif Anderson, both LEAD alumni.
On Tuesday, the class returned to PREEC for presentations from Courtney Schuler, Chair of the Nebraska Dry Bean Commission; Ryan Reuter, Western Sugar South Sales Manager; and representatives from the North Platte NRD and Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD). Discussions covered the dry edible bean and sugar beet industries, including production, processing, and Nebraska’s role in global trade.
The group also met with the Platte Valley Bank team to learn about its Young Farmer Mentorship Program, which connects beginning farmers with experienced producers to strengthen the next generation of agricultural leaders. The session concluded with insights from the Scottsbluff Tourism Board on strategies for promoting western Nebraska communities.
The Nebraska LEAD Program extends sincere appreciation to all sponsors, hosts, and partners who made this session possible, including 21st Century Equipment, ACH Seed, Sondra and Laif Anderson, Aulick Industries, Platte Valley Bank, Western Nebraska Community College, North Platte NRD, PREEC, and the Legacy of the Plains Museum. Their generous support and hospitality continue to make experiential learning opportunities like these possible for future agricultural leaders.
The next session for Nebraska LEAD Class 44 will be held November 2–4 in Kearney.
For more information about the Nebraska LEAD Program or to learn how to apply, visit www.lead.unl.edu.
