Being a livestock judging coach is no easy job. It takes long hours, strong leadership, and a deep knowledge of both animals and people. Coaches must teach students how to make smart, fast decisions and stand behind them with confidence. They travel constantly, deal with high pressure, and are responsible for shaping the next generation of leaders in agriculture. Few do it with the heart, dedication, and success of Dr. Blake Bloomberg. As the Associate Professor and Lead Livestock Judging Coach at Black Hawk College East Campus, Dr. Bloomberg has become a respected mentor and role model for students across the country. Now, he is being honored with the 2024 Best of the Barns Award for Jr. College Livestock Judging Team Coach — a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding work.
Dr. Bloomberg’s journey began in Berwick, Illinois, where he was raised on his family’s livestock operation. From an early age, he developed a love for agriculture, animals, and hard work. That passion led him into livestock judging, where he learned valuable lessons about discipline, teamwork, and confidence. Over time, he realized he wanted to pass on those lessons to others. As a coach, he found a way to inspire young people not only in the show ring, but in life.
His biggest motivation comes from the people closest to him — his wife, Wravenna, and their four children: Breckyn, Brenhem, Berwick, and Bexton. “I want to be someone they can look up to and be proud of,” he says. His students also drive him to be his best. “When you’re passionate about helping them succeed, it pushes you to constantly improve,” he explains. That commitment is clear in everything he does, from daily practices to national competitions.
Dr. Bloomberg’s coaching style is shaped by integrity, fairness, and a team-first mindset. He’s known for keeping a close ear to the ground and making sure false narratives don’t distract from the mission. “The team is the most important, not the individual,” he says — a lesson that builds strong character in his students.
Over the years, he has coached many talented young people, and many of them have become like family. He even had the honor of coaching his own siblings, Jake and Jamie, who have gone on to be successful in the industry. He credits his family — especially his parents, grandparents, and wife — for opening doors and supporting his journey. He also gives thanks to the coaches who believed in him, like Jeremy Hahn, Dan Hoge, Andy Rash, Jake Franke, and Dr. Chris Skaggs.
For young people thinking about joining livestock judging, Dr. Bloomberg has some advice: “The connections you make, the confidence you build, and the lessons you learn are invaluable. And remember, it’s okay to make mistakes along the way — they’re part of the journey.”
Through his hard work, passion, and humility, Dr. Blake Bloomberg has made a lasting impact on his students and the livestock industry. He is more than just a coach — he is a leader, mentor, and example of what it means to serve others. The Best of the Barns Award is not just a trophy; it’s a symbol of the lives he’s changed and the future he continues to build.