Collegiate Program
How the Program Works
The ACGA Collegiate Program connects experienced ranchers with younger or less experienced individuals looking for guidance in the cattle industry. Mentors share their knowledge, experience, and practical insight to help mentees navigate the everyday challenges of ranching and agriculture.
Once a participant joins the program, the ACGA office pairs them with a mentor whose experience aligns with their interests and goals. Mentors and mentees are encouraged to stay in regular contact, discussing real-world situations, sharing advice, and building valuable industry connections.
Through these relationships, the program helps strengthen the skills, confidence, and leadership of the next generation of Arizona ranchers.
How to Become a Mentor
ACGA welcomes experienced ranchers who are willing to share their knowledge and support the next generation of producers. Serving as a mentor is an opportunity to give back to the industry while helping young ranchers grow and succeed.
Mentors commit to maintaining regular communication with their assigned mentee, ideally connecting at least twice each month to offer guidance, answer questions, and share their experience.
Mentors in the program are recognized each year in Arizona Cattlelog and at the ACGA Summer Convention for their dedication to supporting the future of Arizona ranching.
Interested in becoming a mentor? Contact the ACGA office to learn more about joining the program.
Benefits of the Program
The ACGA Collegiate Program creates meaningful connections between experienced ranchers and those entering or growing within the cattle industry. Through mentorship and shared experience, participants gain valuable insight that helps strengthen both their operations and their confidence as ranchers.
Benefits of the program include:
- Real-world guidance from experienced ranchers who understand the day-to-day realities of the industry
- Industry knowledge and practical advice that can help improve decision-making and ranch management
- Stronger professional connections within Arizona’s ranching community
- Leadership development for the next generation of Arizona cattle producers
- Recognition for mentors in Arizona Cattlelog and at the ACGA Summer Convention
- Support for the future of Arizona ranching by helping pass knowledge from one generation to the next
