From Fifth Generation Cattleman to NCBA President ft. Gene Copenhaver

In this episode of Cattle Connect, host Bailey Watson sits down with Gene Copenhaver, the newly elected 2026 President of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, at CattleCon in Nashville. As a fifth-generation cattleman and former agricultural banker, Gene shares the story of his family operation and the leadership journey that took him from grassroots involvement to national office.

They discuss his priorities for the year ahead, where producers can expect to see him on the road, and how he plans to engage with cattlemen and women across the country — including at the ACA Convention & Trade Show in Mobile. Gene also offers advice for young producers, emphasizing the importance of community leadership, industry advocacy, and staying involved at the local level.