MITCHELL, S.D. — For Calli Williams, being named to the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Trailblazers program is the culmination of years of hard work, advocacy and building a ranch from the ground up with her husband, Tate, and their two sons.

“We are first-generation ranchers located near Mitchell, South Dakota,” Williams said. “In the 10 years Tate and I have been together, we’ve doubled our cow size. We’re at a point where we’ve kind of maxed out the property that we own, so we’re always looking to continue to grow.”

Williams, who co-manages their annual online bull sale and direct-to-consumer retail beef business, has long had a passion for promoting the beef industry. That passion started early, when she was named the South Dakota Beef Ambassador in 2009. But it wasn’t until recently that she decided to take the next big step and apply for National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s Trailblazers, a program that trains beef advocates across the country to effectively communicate and represent the industry.

“I had seen a couple of girls on the team last year and the year prior, women that I absolutely admire,” Williams said. “And I thought, that is a heck of an honor to be on a team like that. I thought, you know what, now or never.”

The application process included short essays, a video submission, and certifications in Beef Quality Assurance and Masters of Beef Advocacy.

“And then we had to submit a five- to six-minute video of why we thought we should be a member,” she said.

Her first in-person orientation with the Trailblazers team is set for the end of June at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association headquarters in Denver.

“It’s only a two-day orientation, but it is going to be packed full,” she said, highlighting mock interviews, panel sessions, keynote deliveries, a culinary challenge, and a visit to a feedlot.

Balancing the ranch, her children, and a leadership role on the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association board, Williams acknowledges the challenge of taking on more, but also the necessity.

“It felt like it’s time that I step back on that platform of promoting and advocacy outside of just social media,” she said. “As hard as it is to leave the ranch, I think it’s important that we make those connections.”

Williams currently serves as the vice president of membership for the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association, where she’s focused on member engagement and partnership development.

“I set a personal goal of where I’d like to see our membership when my position is up,” she said. “We’re in that brainstorming process, what brands or businesses can we partner with, how do we get additional cattlemen involved?”

Her selection to the Trailblazers program is celebrated by industry leaders back home.

“The beef industry needs strong, effective advocates — and Calli is exactly that,” said Warren Symens, president of the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association. “Her passion, dedication, and understanding of the industry make her an ideal representative for South Dakota. We’re excited to see the difference she’ll make on a national level.”

Williams also wants to be a voice of encouragement for those just getting their start.

“I think about Tate — he grew up on Lake Mitchell, zero ag background. He started buying cows in high school because of a friend’s operation,” she said. “There are families out there who would love a kid to come show something of theirs. It’s about making those relationships, letting people know you’re interested.”

Williams sees this opportunity as more than just personal growth for herself, she hopes to build community, raise awareness of the beef industry, and help shape the future of agriculture.

“There’s a lot to learn,” she said, “but we’re here, and we’re doing it.”

Kennedy is a reporter for Sioux Falls Live based out of Brookings with a focus on the people and issues in Northeast South Dakota. She grew up on an organic crop farm where her family also raises cattle near Estelline and also contributes to AgWeek. She graduated from South Dakota State University in 2023 with a major in agricultural communication and minor in agricultural business.