Continuing a strong tradition of excellence, the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture Crops Judging Team earned a first-place team finish at Oklahoma State University. Under the guidance of agronomy professor and coach Dr. Brad Ramsdale, NCTA’s teams have consistently performed in regional and national contests, and this latest victory adds to that growing legacy. This competition was a first for the host and included three schools in the two-year division and six schools in the four-year division, with all students completing the same rigorous contest components.
Overall Individual (Two-Year Division)
- 1st – KaCee Jo Saffer, Arriba, Colorado
- 2nd – Wyatt Ozenbaugh, Ohiowa, Nebraska
- 3rd – Grant Ottun, Sargent, Nebraska
- 5th – Aaron Underwood, Esbon, Kansas
- 6th – Jada Eilert, Jewell, Kansas
- 7th – Kyra Jespersen, Hemingford, Nebraska
- 8th – Hailey Loutzenhizer, Flagler, Colorado
- 10th – Mason Semler, Exeter, Nebraska
Overall scoring among team members was extremely close, underscoring the strength and consistency of the entire NCTA team. Each member contributed valuable points toward the championship finish.
Dr. Brad Ramsdale, NCTA agronomy professor and crops judging coach, praised the group’s commitment and teamwork. “I’m very proud of all the students as they are all working very hard and do a great job helping each other get better. Oklahoma State put on a great contest that allowed us all to learn some new things.”
Students were tested in plant and seed identification, laboratory practical application, agronomic math, and crop science knowledge — areas that mirror real-world agronomy and crop production decision-making.
Category results: Plant/Seed ID – 1st KaCee; 2nd Wyatt; 3rd Grant. Lab Practical – 1st Wyatt; 2nd Aaron; 3rd Grant. Math Exam – 1st KaCee; 2nd Wyatt; 3rd Grant. Knowledge Exam – tied 1st Wyatt; 3rd KaCee.
The event reinforces the hands-on technical training, analytical skill development, and peer-to-peer learning that define NCTA’s Agronomy program and prepare students for careers in crop production, agribusiness, and agricultural consulting.
