KEARNEY, Neb. - Families from across the nation are converging on the Buffalo County Fairgrounds to not only buy and sell livestock, but to also share industry knowledge with peers and children interested in the trade.

Kearney hosted the Nebraska Cattlemen's Winter Edition Classic this week, with the focus on livestock trade, youth education, and community engagement.

Industry officials say it's harder than ever to find individuals that want to work on the farm, so many families are teaching resilience to their little ones in preparation for the future. 

The Nebraska Cattleman’s Classic, NCC, manager Ronette Heinrich said "A strong mission of the NCC is building up the next generation whether it's providing the shows for the youth or providing educational opportunities. It's all about bringing education truly to cattlemen of all ages."

Ringmaster and Stockman Magazine owner Bill Schermer said "cattle people have a lot of pride in what they do, raising their cattle, building their ranches and so forth. So most families dream of having their children carry on their legacy."

Ben and Emily Johnson of C1 cattle, along with their newborn, echoed that statement, saying "it means a lot" to have now four generations involved on the family trade. 

Emily said "My dad and my grandpa are still working at the ranch. My dad's here today but my grandpa is almost 90 years old and is at home still taking care of the cows. It just means a lot to have all of the family together. "

The NCC is also providing over $24,000 in scholarships this winter to students entering the agricultural industry, which is just a fraction of the investment required to help feed America and the world.