Recorded at the Southwest Meat Association (SMA) meat judging contest with support from Forum Meat and Columbia Packing, Neil interviews Bo Garcia, a University of Nebraska–Lincoln extension assistant professor who coordinates the meat judging program and is finishing his PhD. Garcia, originally from La Vernia near San Antonio and a Texas A&M graduate, credits SMA scholarships and describes the SMA as a supportive family network. He shares how he began meat judging in 2018, fell in love with its academic and interpersonal benefits for students, and has coached teams since; his current team is small, with two new students competing for the first time. Garcia encourages students to apply for SMA scholarships and advises young judges to trust themselves and the process. His research focuses on youth education and Gen Z learning preferences and how higher education and employers can adapt training and expectations.
Topics
00:56 What SMA Means
01:46 Nebraska Role
02:26 Aggie Ring Story
03:12 Meat Judging Journey
03:51 Family Influence
04:53 Team Update
05:19 Scholarships Explained
08:27 PhD Plans Ahead
09:54 Advice Trust Yourself
11:18 Gen Z Education Research
13:11 Wrap Up Thanks
