Briley Eaton

Shadbolt Home Ranch

Briley Eaton, from Las Cruces, New Mexico, is currently attending New Mexico State University, where she is studying Agricultural Business, Livestock Production, and Agricultural Communications. This summer, she will be interning at the Shadbolt Home Ranch near Merriman.

Briley grew up on a family farm and ranch where they raised alfalfa and corn before her family transitioned to raising beef cattle in 2010. She has been actively involved in both 4-H and FFA (Future Farmers of America) throughout middle and high school, participating in Leadership Development Events (LDEs) and Career Development Events (CDEs). Additionally, she competed in volleyball, basketball, and softball.

Her passion for agriculture has been shaped by hands-on experience working with beef cattle on her family’s ranch. Briley credits her father for teaching her many skills related to beef management, while her FFA advisor and pasture and range coach helped her learn to identify various rangelands and plant species. She also gained experience working at a livestock auction, where she learned to track cattle and input information accurately in a fast-paced environment.

Briley applied for the Sandhills Ranch Internship Program to gain further experience in ranch work. She is excited to learn about artificial insemination (AI) and preg-checking cattle. Moreover, she looks forward to seeing different ranchlands, building connections, and meeting new people.

Outside of ranch work, Briley enjoys breakaway roping and spending time outdoors. Whether she is working cattle, riding horses, or competing in the arena, she values the lessons and opportunities that come from agriculture and the ranching lifestyle. Briley believes that hard work can lead to success in life and that trusting God in every aspect is essential, as she believes He has a plan for her.

Looking ahead, Briley hopes to build a well-rounded career in the beef industry. She is eager to experience the Sandhills landscape and embrace the ranch lifestyle throughout the summer.