Ashlyn O’Brien

Ashlyn O’Brien: Becoming The Next Top Influencer For Young Women To Look Up Too For A Life Time

Ashlyn O’Brien, is from Perrysburg Ohio. You have probably seen her in the ring at multiple shows across the country. You may know her from judging showmanship at American Royal, or winning the Ohio State Fair Commercial Market Ewe in 20219, or you have seen her in the ring at the San Antonio livestock judging contest. Ashlyn has been a part of the industry in so many aspects as she continues to pour back into it. As Ashlyn continues in her journey she hopes to be the next judge for young women in the industry to look up too.

“My name is Ashlyn O’Brien, and I’m originally from Perrysburg, Ohio. I am 23 years old. I currently live in Kansas City, Kansas where I work for Cargill Animal Nutrition.”

Ashlyn started 4-H at a young age. Her and her siblings showed animals that were raised on their grandparents farm. “I owe my start in the livestock industry entirely to my parents. Showing animals from my family farm at the county fair and spending time in the barn with my family made me fall in love with the industry.”

After beginning her 4‑H career. Ashlyn started livestock Judging on her county judging team. “My parents immediately signed me up for the team. I’ll be honest — I hated it at first, especially giving reasons. I never imagined that the thing I dreaded would become the reason I moved 13 hours from home after high school to judge at a junior college. Looking back, that early push was one of the most pivotal moments in my entire journey.”

In her early teens, Ashlyn decided she wanted to show sheep. So she went to two of her close buddies Garret and Lucas Tuck for help. “I asked Garrett and Lucas Tuck if they’d help me get started. From that moment on, I found people in the industry who poured into me, believed in me, and helped me chase goals I never thought I’d reach.”

“That support system is what makes this industry so special, and I’ll always be grateful for the people who invested in me….”

Ashlyn started judging on a very competitive county team in Ohio. “There were older members on that team who I looked up to tremendously, and many of them went on to judge at Butler Community College.”

By the time Ashlyn was a senior. She decided to visit Butler in hopes of going where her biggest influences had gone. “I instantly knew it was where I needed to be. After our very first practice something clicked. I was eager to learn, and found that my passion for judging grew fast.”

Throughout Ashlyn’s career she has been surrounded by incredible coaches and mentors who have shaped her at every stage. “Each one taught me something different from fundamentals, to confidence, to how to think critically and trust my eye. There wasn’t one single moment where everything clicked, but rather a steady build of experiences that made me more confident, more consistent, and more passionate about the industry.”

“The more rings you step into, the more comfortable you become.”

Ashlyn had many early opportunities which gave her Ashlyn exposure and experiences quickly. “Over time, I learned to trust my instincts and remember why we’re there in the first place — for the kids. That mindset keeps me grounded and confident every time I sort a show.”

Collegiate judging teaches you to, “Identify the kind of livestock you gravitate toward.”

“I’m always drawn to the ones that are fundamentally correct. I especially like the ones that have the fundamentals with the extras that makes sorting a show exciting.”

Ashlyn says, “With exhibitors, you can usually tell within seconds who put the work in at home.”

“The ones who handle their animals with confidence, stay composed, never give up, and show respect in the ring always stand out to me.”

“Showmanship levels the playing field.”

No matter what you spend on your animal, your effort, preparation, and natural ability can set you apart in the showmanship ring. Ashlyn sees this as a way to level the playing field. In showmanship Ashlyn is often drawn to how well each exhibitor is intertwined with their animal. “I focus on how well the exhibitor works with their animal, how prepared they are, and whether they’ve taken advice and applied it. That approach keeps things fair and consistent.”

If Ashlyn could describe her judging style she would describe it as a judge that is focused on fundamentals and positives of an animal but her fired up. “I enjoy looking at unique livestock that have the added presence, shape and quality. I continue to learn that good livestock do come in different shapes and sizes which can always make it fun to judge. As for exhibitors, I’m drawn to those who are disciplined, respectful, and fully engaged with their animals. The ones who stay calm, make smart adjustments, and clearly put in the work at home. Will always rise to the top.”

Ashlyn is focused on gaining more experience and learning more about the way she judges in the ring. “As I gain more experience, my goal is to continue improving so I can be the best possible advocate for the kids in the ring. While also continuing to evaluate the livestock for what they are. When I was showing, judges were role models to me, and I hope to be that for someone else. Especially as a female judge, I want young girls to see that they can step into this role too. If I can inspire even one young person to chase their goals, then I’m doing something right.”

A Note To The Judges:

“Do hard things. Surround yourself with good people and never stop learning — in the barn, in the ring, or in life.”