Being a show cattle manager takes more than just skill with animals. It takes passion, long hours, and a heart committed to both the livestock and the people around them. The job can be tough — full of early mornings, hard work, and challenges that come with managing top-quality cattle and preparing them for shows. But for Michael Jones, it’s a way of life that he loves. This year, his dedication and leadership earned him the honor of being named a Best of the Barns winner.
Michael serves as the Show Cattle Manager at Express Ranches in Yukon, Oklahoma. For the past four years, he has been a key part of the Express Ranches team, helping care for and present some of the finest cattle in the country. But his journey started long before that, in Hillmond, Saskatchewan, Canada.
Growing up in a small agricultural community, Michael was surrounded by livestock from the start. His family has raised and shown Angus and Hereford cattle for generations. “I was raised into a family that showed cattle, and I just strive to continue that on for generations to come,” he says. The values of hard work, responsibility, and pride in livestock were passed down to him, and today he carries on that tradition with care and passion.
Like anyone who works with livestock, Michael knows the road isn’t always easy. There are tough days, hard lessons, and unexpected challenges. But his advice to others is simple and full of hope: “Bad days come and go — just don’t give up on your dreams.” His own path has shown that perseverance pays off.
Throughout his career, Michael has been fortunate to have strong role models who guided and inspired him. From his early days showing cattle in Canada to his work today, many people have offered support and encouragement. “Some of the people I’ve looked up to the most are Jerold Callahan and Tracy Goretska, just to name a few,” Michael shares. Their leadership and dedication left a lasting impression on him.
Michael is quick to credit his success to the people who have stood by him and believed in him. “Any success I’ve had comes a lot from my mom, my grandparents, and my cousin Miles Shout for always pushing me to do better,” he says with gratitude. Their influence helped shape the person and professional he is today.
Being selected as a Best of the Barns winner is a moment Michael will never forget. “It was a real honor,” he says. “It’s always been a dream — I just didn’t think it would ever happen!” His words show not only his excitement but also his humble and thankful spirit.
In the end, Michael Jones’s story is about more than just winning awards. It’s about staying true to your roots, working hard, and never losing sight of your dreams — even on the hard days. His example is one that inspires both young people starting out in the livestock industry and those who have been part of it for years. Michael shows what can happen when you combine passion, perseverance, and a deep respect for the people and animals that make this work so meaningful.