SDCA Leadership Academy

The SDCA's Cattlemen's  Leadership Academy is designed to inspire and empower leaders within the cattle industry. The program offers a curriculum focused on three main areas, fostering industry knowledge, developing leaders, and honing communication skills. 

Participants will engage in a series of interactive seminars, events, tours, and experiential learning opportunities alongside cattle industry veterans and experts in all segments of the industry. Each Seminar will include a leadership session and  provide for networking and collaboration with fellow professionals, industry influencers, and potential mentors. Through these connections, participants can expand their professional network, exchange best practices, and explore collaborative opportunities to address industry-wide challenges. Finally, communication is a keystone to the program. Participants will  sharpen their interview skills with radio and print opportunities, develop social media strategies, and learn to tailor  messaging for industry leaders, policy decision makers, and consumers. 

The  Cattlemen’s Leadership Academy aims to empower individuals to make a positive impact on the industry, drive sustainable growth, and shape the future of the beef production industry. By equipping participants with the necessary skills, knowledge, and networks, this program is poised to play a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of influential leaders in the cattle industry.

SDCA Leadership Academy Schedule* 

  • April 10 | Seminar I: Industry Policy & Critical Thinking | Pierre, SD
  • June 16-17 | Seminar II: Spring Tour & Media Communications | Rural Faulkton/ Aberdeen
  • August 7 | Seminar III: Mentorship Seminar & Consumer Outreach | Sioux Falls, SD
  • October 6-2 | Seminar IV: Fall Tour & Persuasive Communications | Spearfish/ Rapid City 
  • December 2-4 | SDCA Convention & Trade Show | Deadwood, SD
  • January 28-29, 2026 | Leadership Academy Graduation & SDCA Day at the Capitol | Pierre, SD

*Schedule is subject to change. 

Applicant Criteria

  1. Current member of the South Dakota Cattlemen's Association. 
  2. At least 21 years of age. 
  3. Active in the South Dakota Cattle Industry. 

Academy Costs

  1. $1,000 tuition includes hotel for 2 day seminars, meals, tours, and seminar expenses. 
  2. Travel and incidentals are the responsibility of the participant. 

Participant Expectations

  1. Attend and participate in all required sessions as outlined above. Participants are also encouraged to attend additional SDCA activities.
  2. Submit tuition payment of $1,000 prior to the first session. Students may obtain sponsorship(s) to assist with tuition costs. 
  3. Participate in leadership roles within the Association and/or local affiliate.


The application period for Class I of the Leadership Academy is closed.

Applications for Class II will open in late summer 2025!