Hello everyone! My name is Jacey Smidt and this summer I am interning with our Animal Nutrition – Allied Nutrition Team based out of the Kearney, NE location with Ralston Ripp. I recently graduated from Southeast Community College in Beatrice, NE with degrees in Livestock Management & Production and Ag Business.

I grew up on my family’s diversified row crop farm and cow/calf operation located just east of Minden, NE, and graduated from Axtell Community Schools. I was heavily involved in showing cattle growing up and my sister and I run our own club-calf operation called Smitty Cattle Company. Growing up around agriculture has allowed me to build my passion for animal agriculture specifically in the beef industry.

This summer has been busy and full of new experiences for me. From learning how to network with customers and building relationships as well as gaining more knowledge in animal nutrition and expertise in the products we offer, I have had the opportunity to see all sides of the cooperative and the variety of different things that happen within our team. I have had the chance to spend some time with our nutritionist Dr. Folmer learning how to develop and balance rations for customers, the different feed additives we have to offer, and even the chance to collect some forage samples. This summer has allowed me to also build relationships with cattlemen across the area by going out to their operations and learning about what they do to have a successful nutrition program. I also have been able to see bits and pieces of our marketing side with our new re-brand into Allied Nutrition.

However, my favorite part of this summer has been being able to attend show clinics and Junior Nationals. I spent 2 weeks at the fairgrounds working our mobile feed store for Maine & Chi Junior Nationals and Angus Junior Nationals. I love supporting the youth and giving back to them because I know the hard work they put in all year for their show animals and I enjoy seeing them have success in the show ring. I only have a few more weeks left of my internship and will finish up by attending a few county fairs and trying to soak up all the knowledge I can get.

I am beyond grateful for this opportunity to intern with Aurora Cooperative and the Allied Nutrition Team this summer. The knowledge and connections I have built with everyone mean a lot to me and I hope to continue to learn, grow and gain new knowledge about animal nutrition and the industry as a whole. Thank you everyone and have a great rest of your summer!