Hailey Carr

Chinook Writer

For Eric Schafer, his career at Casper College as the livestock judging coach marks a significant milestone. Straight out of college, he accepted the job and moved to Wyoming to begin his new career. Schafer offers an extensive background in livestock judging, a deep understanding of genetics, and a strong passion for the industry.

Originally from central Illinois, Schafer grew up on a row crop and livestock operation. He started showing livestock at a very young age. 

“When I got to be nine or 10, I started judging, and that was kind of my gateway into the industry. It all started through showing livestock, and I just started getting more involved the older I got,” Schafer said. 

His passion for the industry expanded as he formed connections and pursued greater opportunities. Schafer explained that his involvement grew over time, serving on the National Junior Angus Board and participating in livestock judging throughout college.

Schafer attended Butler Community College and later Oklahoma State University where he studied animal science and honed his skills in livestock judging. 

During his time at OSU, he not only competed but also assisted his coach in guiding younger students, which was instrumental in leading the team to a national reserve championship. He said the experience gave him valuable insights into coaching and mentoring.

For Schafer, coming to CC wasn’t just about taking a job – he said his decision revolved around honoring the legacy of a strong program. He had long admired the program’s history, especially when Kelly Burch was in charge, as well as the leadership of later coaches like Heath Hornecker and Jeremy Burkett. Schafer said he also recognized the college’s tradition of producing successful students and noted that Wyoming’s strong agricultural base, particularly in seedstock cattle, proved a key factor in his decision.

He shared that his inspiration to become a coach stemmed from the leadership he experienced from his own mentors. 

“I was inspired by my past judging coaches and their strong leadership. Their impact is what motivated me to become a coach myself,” Schafer said. “I want to be that kind of coach for the younger generation.”

Schafer emphasizes hard work and discipline in his coaching approach. He believes success comes from outworking the competition through daily practice, livestock visits, and consistent effort, fostering motivation and dedication in his team.

He believes in fostering a strong work ethic within his team to not only succeed in competitions but also to set them up for long-term success in life.

While the transition from a student to a coach brings challenges, Schafer said he is confident that he will adapt. 

“The biggest challenge is just getting used to being in a senior-level position and learning the ropes of it,” he admitted.

For Schafer, livestock judging goes beyond evaluating animals. It teaches valuable life skills such as decision making, work ethic, time management, and responsibility. 

“Probably the biggest thing I’m the most proud of in this group is we had a very successful winter run there in Oklahoma City at Congress and at the National Western,” Schafer shared. “It was a culmination of what we started with, right? I started with this group in August, and we didn’t have nearly the same amount of time to get used to each other, but the work paid off.” 

The team demonstrated outstanding performances, earning sixth place at Cattlemen’s Congress and eighth at the National Western. Several individuals achieved notable rankings, including a first-place finish in cattle, a top-five placement in sheep and goats, and a top-five finish in cattle reasons. Schafer expressed that seeing their hard work pay off was one of his proudest moments as a coach.

Schafer values the strong bond within the team and takes pride in watching students dedicate themselves, travel together, and achieve success. 

“What I enjoy most is the camaraderie within the team. It’s amazing to see them work hard, travel together, and ultimately succeed.”

For students pursuing a career in agriculture, Schafer offered advice. 

“You just have to be gritty. One door closes and another one opens. Agriculture offers growth and opportunities, especially for young people willing to work and learn.”

Looking ahead, Schafer is focused on continuing the legacy of success at Casper College. 

“From our program perspective, I really want us to continue growing our student involvement,” Schafer said. “I want us to be a nationally competitive judging program, and I think we’re getting to that point. We’ve been there for several years based on the history of the program.” 

He is committed to continuing that legacy, ensuring that the ag department at CC remains a place that produces some of the best and brightest young minds in the industry.

As Schafer embarks on this new chapter at CC, his drive, passion, and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly continue to inspire and guide his students for years to come.