BE THE LEADER SOMEONE NEEDS
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“ No one can know every aspect of this industry,” Nickles said.“ The real key is to surround yourself with people who are knowledgeable where you are not and being willing to ask questions. Find the right people who you can call, talk to again and again and again when you’ re not understanding something, people who are patient and willing to invest in you.”
Every successful leader relies on a network of mentors and peers. These relationships aren’ t formed by accident. They are built through intentional networking, curiosity and humility. Finding people who are patient, experienced and supportive of your success makes challenges manageable and growth attainable.
For Payne,“ Networking was what you were told to do in college and learning that at a young age was pivotal for my career. When you’ ve got people who want to see you succeed, they’ ll help you blaze your path.” Building that network of peers leads to a feeling of purpose and place within the industry. Take the First Step Before Feeling Ready Leadership often begins long before confidence arrives. These women each experienced times of self-doubt and questioned whether they were ready or qualified.
Payne recalled stepping into the role of the first female president of the Oklahoma National Stockyards. The media attention was intense, and she felt the pressure. But rather than shrinking from the spotlight, she leaned into it. Payne used her role to encourage others and serve as a role model for both women and men.
Future leaders need to understand that confidence is built by doing. But leadership also comes with responsibility, Nickles reminded. She urged young professionals to step into roles thoughtfully, only if they are fully committed to doing the job well.
Leadership pathways in the beef industry are more accessible than many realize. Industry organizations are actively looking for engaged, enthusiastic individuals who are willing to serve. County cattle associations and state organizations offer places where emerging leaders can learn and contribute meaningfully. Each level provides new perspective and prepares individuals for broader roles.
“ Just do it,” Payne encouraged.“ There’ s a place for every skill set, but you have to put yourself out there.”
When you’ ve got people who want to see you succeed, they’ ll help you blaze your path.
Donsbach shared how offering ideas helped open doors for her first leadership role. By speaking up about ways to attract youth to the Montana Stockgrowers Association, she was invited to chair a committee, and that first open door has shaped her leadership journey within the state. As this door was opened for her, she seeks to open doors and create opportunities for other eager leaders. A Responsibility to Create Access Ensuring a strong future for the beef industry requires more than advice— it requires access. All three women acknowledged that there are barriers to entry for young producers, including high cattle prices, limited land availability, and fewer chances to grow up in production agriculture.
That’ s why they stressed innovative solutions to these problems. As an example, Payne currently partners with young producers by grazing her cattle on their land, providing income and animal handling experience without the financial burden of ownership. Several of those young producers are now moving toward buying cattle of their own. This type of pathway for new producers is critical for the continuation of the cattle industry.
There is also great value in internships and mentorships. Donsbach’ s ranch partners with Montana State University to bring in interns, recognizing that, while they may have limited experience, passion and work ethic matter just as much. Being willing to guide and offer experiences to people without traditional ranch roots means they can still become excellent cattlemen and women.
Leadership means removing limits and creating space for others to contribute. Share hard lessons, celebrate progress, and make the industry more accessible for those who follow. The beef industry’ s next generation needs leaders who are adaptable, collaborative and bold. And those leaders are already here. They’ re watching, working, questioning and stepping into the spotlight.
As Donsbach sums it up,“ Be the person you would’ ve wanted to meet when you were younger.”
8 JUNE 2026 www. NCBA. org