Maggie Mcstay is your Judge for this month!   She is from Wyoming and has an Animal Science degree.  She hopes to help grow and continue the agricultural industry.

“Hi, I’m Maggie McStay from Wyoming. I grew up showing livestock and judging through 4-H and FFA, and thanks to some incredible mentors, I developed a deep passion for being a stockman. After earning my Animal Science degree, I returned home and now work in marketing for Wyoming Sheep and Wool Growers. I’m proud to be promoting and protecting the prosperous future of Wyoming’s agriculture through my pursuits.  I started my judging career at Black Hawk East where I was fortunate to be part of a very competitive team and earned my All-American award. I later transferred to Western Illinois University, where I continued judging and finished my degree in Animal Science.”

What’s been your highlight?

“Honestly, it’s the connections. Judging across different states, meeting kids, families, and breeders who care deeply about this way of life is the best part. And of course, getting to sort elite stock is always a thrill.”

Judging stock starts with fundamentals which Maggie always comes back to.

“I always find that quality livestock — no matter the size, shape, or species — will naturally sort themselves to the top. From there, my commercial cattle background tends to favor functionality. At the end of the day, we’re still part of the ag industry, and practical, productive traits matter. That said, I always keep modern show ring trends in mind and place a strong emphasis on livestock that not only look the part but also possess the right fundamentals.”

Showmanship is key heres what maggie thinks of it:

“I always say in the ring that I love a confident showman — someone who knows how to showcase their animal to its fullest potential while staying composed and in control. The word I always use is poised. You want to carry yourself with a strong presence, but not overshadow the animal. I really respect showmen who are also true stockmen, the kind of kids who if I ask a question, can tell me who their animal is from, where it came from, what they like about it, and what they’d change. That kind of awareness shows me they’re not just exhibitors, they’re invested in livestock and the industry. And those are the kinds of young people I believe will be our next agricultural leaders.”

“It all started with a 4-H project pig when I was eight years old. At the time, my family didn’t have any other livestock ,but that one project quickly spiraled into livestock judging, raising my own herd of registered cattle, and eventually earning a degree in Animal Science. From jackpots to judging contests to the incredible people in this industry, it’s highly addictive in the best way. I’m so thankful for the mentors and supporters who’ve helped me get to where I am today. It’s a great industry to grow up in, and an even better one to stay involved with.”

The industry is expanding and growing but with that sometimes we lose sight of the small things.  Here’s what Maggie thinks is something the industry needs more of.

“I always say that I love the new, modern trends in the show ring. But as someone who raises cattle myself and has worked alongside some of the best in the industry (across all species), I believe our industry needs to refocus on the basics of functionality. We’re seeing more and more breeding stock that lack true functionality. They might look the part in the ring,  but long-term

 That kind of dysfunction catches up with us. At some point, we have to prioritize soundness and practicality again, because those traits are what truly sustain our operations and the industry as a whole.”

Every showman has their own things but every judge has their pet peeve here  is maggies.

“One of my biggest pet peeves is when the showman takes attention away from their livestock. Showmanship should highlight the animal, not distract from it. Things like nervous ticks, overly flashy or distracting outfits, excessive movement with a show stick or whip, or even just certain mannerisms can really pull focus away from the project. I appreciate showmen who are polished, confident, and let their animals do the talking. Those are the individuals who tend to rise to the top in my ring.”

And what would be your biggest piece of advice to a young judge?

“Always keep learning. Watch, listen, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to be wrong. Confidence will come with experience, but credibility comes from doing the hard work.”