Engler

During our stop at O’Neill on the Nebraska Trek, our students participated in a roundtable discussion with the owners of Handle Bend and the Brass Bunkhouse over coffee, who shared their experiences as both parents and business owners. Both businesses challenge the belief that we must choose between family and starting a business.

They emphasized the importance of pivoting when necessary and prioritizing what truly matters. Our discussion highlighted the power of partnerships, as the business owners, who are also close friends, showcased how strong relationships can drive success. We learned that sometimes entrepreneurship is not just about making a profit; but about creating spaces where people can come together.

Our students ended this stop with a Q+A and took away insights about how to balance big business projects and personal commitments, as well as the importance of creating strong relationships with your customers as the foundation of your business venture. Thank you to Handle Bend and the Brass Bunkhouse for allowing us to learn about your businesses!

Our next stop in Valentine gave us an exploration of the local entrepreneurial landscape. We began with a visit to the Mayor to hear about Sandhills Bank, a startup that emphasizes the importance of understanding the needs of others before seeking to be understood. They taught us about the concept of being a "good ancestor" and building for the long term.

When visiting Bolo Brewing, we discovered the brewery's origins in a failed Runza venture, showcasing how failure can be a powerful motivator for future success. Then, we visited Cody Foster Ornaments, a company that has found quiet success in its industry. This business highlights the intersection of creativity and entrepreneurship, emphasizing finding beauty in the unexpected and sharing it with others.
We also visited Broken Spoke Boutique, where the owner filled community needs by offering products like granola and snacks after the local grocery store closed. This boutique highlights the power of partnerships and the idea that entrepreneurship is not solely about competition, but also collaboration.

Our entrepreneurs also went on a tubing adventure through Little Outlaw Canoes, Tubes & Kayaks. We enjoyed dinners at Frederick Peak, catered by Hoebe’s Smoke N Meats; and the Niobrara Valley Vineyard.

Thank you to all of the businesses in the Valentine area that hosted us!

Our next visit on the Nebraska Trek was to the town of Ainsworth, where we had the opportunity to explore the story behind the Ainsworth Child Development Center. This childcare center, which opened its doors to the public on March 11, 2024, is a non-profit organization that serves children from birth to six years old. The center was founded by a group of mothers who identified a need for childcare in their area.

Despite facing skepticism, they came together to create a center that puts care as their first priority. We learned that you can still use an entrepreneurial mindset and approach when starting a non-profit. The tour showed the importance of identifying your core values and focusing on what you want to deliver to your community. The Ainsworth Child Development Center showed us what can be achieved when passionate individuals come together with a shared vision to solve a problem, embodying the true spirit of entrepreneurship in a non-profit setting.

Thank you to the Ainsworth Child Development Center for hosting us!

Our stop in Bassett during the Nebraska Trek held significant meaning for our program, as this area was where Paul Engler was raised and got his entrepreneurial start. We visited the gas station Paul’s father owned and The Range Cafe - Bassett,Nebraska for a breakfast buffet, and heard from two speakers: Homer Buell and Ann Dvorak.

Homer recounted Paul Engler’s story and background in Bassett. The local sale barn was where Paul purchased a hundred head of cattle on loan while his dad was away on business. One handshake from his father and hearing that his father was proud of him launched him into the entrepreneur he became. We heard different stories and saw photos of Paul during his time in Bassett.

Ann Dvorak told us the story of the start and closure of a private school in the small town of Bassett called Schoolhouse Rock, which was an Acton Academy. This school’s focus was on the students taking charge of their education and embarking on their own “hero’s journey”. Ann provided our students with valuable insights into fearless entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of understanding yourself within a larger context and identifying the values that drive business ventures. She also highlighted the importance of knowing when to quit, as the school has since closed, illustrating that ending a venture can be just as crucial as starting one.

Thank you to Homer, Ann, and the Range Cafe for hosting us!

Our next stop on our Nebraska Trek journey took us to Norfolk, NE. Intersect Coworking hosted a panel for our students alongside the Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce, River Point Creative District, and Growing Together. This allowed us to explore career paths that empower entrepreneurs without being one themselves. The panel gave us the message that everyone has something valuable to offer to uplift their community.

Tech professionals from Asa Technologies, eLawn, and Ag Credit Consulting shared insights on how to adopt a lean startup mindset. We also got to visit local small businesses like Golden West Leather Co., Lot 247, and Blossom & Birch. At each stop, we saw how making simple sacrifices can lead to success in our entrepreneurial journeys. We finished our day with a dinner at Black Cow Fat Pig.

Thank you to all of the businesses that made our day in Norfolk so inspiring!

New Beginnings: Couple purchases iconic Nebraska bakery In a bold move with no prior experience in the bakery business, a husband-and-wife duo purchased one of the most well-known bakeries in Nebraska. Alix and Andrew Ambriz didn’t grow up in McCook…

In high school, Nathaly Dragoo never envisioned herself pursuing higher education. However, attending a college fair introduced her to the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture. Despite her own limited agricultural experience, her family's farming background had ignited a spark of interest in the field of agriculture that led her to pursue an education in Curtis, Nebraska.

During her time in Curtis, Nathaly developed a deep passion for agriculture. Driven by this newfound enthusiasm, she decided to take the next step—becoming an advocate for the industry through entrepreneurship. This led to the creation of Trailblazers, a clothing and accessories brand dedicated to agricultural empowerment. Today, Nathaly plays for every farmer and agriculturalist in the pursuit of making her business successful.

Join in with host Olivia Vanderford in welcoming Nathaly Dragoo to this episode of the Engler Journey Podcast!

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6gPh84E3d9Cu9AjEvi1FQ7?si=5L9lwQL5S4qR-PZjmVxJ8Q

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-engler-journey/id1493280471?i=1000666876015

Our next stop on the Nebraska Trek brought us to Pender, Nebraska, where we visited North 40 Premium Beef. This tour highlighted the pillars of grit and partnership through the stories of co-founders Logan Peters and Alex Heine. Raised on multi-generational cattle ranches, Logan and Alex passionately shared how hard work, dedication, and a deep respect for the land have guided their journey in producing luxury American Wagyu beef.

The tour gave us a look into the realities of building a business from the ground up. Alex and Logan, both alumni of the Engler Program, were friends during their college years, but their business partnership didn't take shape until after graduation when Logan needed a partner. Initially, Logan juggled a nine-to-five job while dedicating late nights and early mornings to his side business until it became viable. Their partnership was built on Logan's expertise in cattle and Alex's management skills, particularly in quality assurance. Together, they have tirelessly developed North 40 Beef into the thriving business it is today. Despite facing significant challenges, such as a car accident that Alex survived just six months ago, they have remained committed to ensuring the success of North 40 Beef.

At the end of the tour, we took part in a Wagyu tasting, allowing us to experience the premium beef North 40 is renowned for. The tour was a powerful testament to the positive impact of entrepreneurship on families and communities, showcasing the dedication and passion that bring the flavors of the Midwest to dining tables across the country.

Last week, a group of our Engler entrepreneurs embarked on the Nebraska Trek, a journey designed to immerse our students in the experiences of Nebraska business owners and foster meaningful, in-person interactions.

Our adventure began with a visit to Oak Barn Beef, owned by Engler alumni Hannah and Eric Klitz. During the tour, we enjoyed breakfast provided by Simmer Down-a take & bake kitchen, a take-and-bake kitchen that started in West Point and has since expanded to Fremont. We also had the opportunity to learn from Flyover Whiskey, a West Point business that crafts custom whiskey using corn sourced from local farmers and families. We listened to these businesses talk about their craft before concluding with a Q&A session.

At Oak Barn Beef, the importance of work-life balance was a central theme as Hannah and Eric shared how they juggle a thriving beef operation, raising two children, and running a storefront. Their family-operated model has earned strong community support for their retail location in West Point, Nebraska—a town rich in culture and activities. Oak Barn Beef sets itself apart through a commitment to superior cattle genetics, a grass-fed and grain-finished diet certified by a nutritionist for their cattle, and the use of a local butcher who hand-cuts and dry-ages each cut of beef with care.

A special thank you to Oak Barn Beef, Flyover Whiskey, and Simmer Down for allowing us to learn more about your incredible businesses! Engler entrepreneurs, what was your favorite part of our visit to West Point?

Baker's Candies is their name, family business and chocolate making is their game.🍫🙌

Learn more about this legacy business in part 3 of their story on the Building Nebraska Podcast!🎧

Listen here: https://bit.ly/3MfdCF5

Building Nebraska is ignited by Engler🔥

Hoy tuvimos la oportunidad de compartir de nuestro postre favorito, en UNL Engler Entrepreneurship Center🥳❤️

Engler

Meet Jaya Nelson, an agricultural and environmental sciences communications student from Bassett, Nebraska. UNL Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication Department, Engler

"My favorite thing about the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is definitely the people," Nelson said.

Read more ›› https://ow.ly/NFjM50SWeFo

On RFD-TV: Halle Ramsey At the Univesity of Nebraska and other colleges and universities around the country, new programs are helping students to develop entrepreneurial skills and even to start their own businesses while they are still students. Among these programs is the University of Nebraska’s Engler Agribusiness En...

“Clear thinking leads to good decisions;
Good decisions lead to the right habits;
The right habits forge character; and
Character determines destiny.”

Earlier this month, Engler hosted a group of educators in Ord, Nebraska, to help them take a step back and consider how to approach their classrooms with an entrepreneurial mindset.

Educators from across Nebraska—including those from Northeast Community College, Gibbon, Ord, Loup City, Boone Central, Cozad, and Spalding—came together to create greater value, find opportunities and challenge assumptions within their classrooms. Just as businesses serve their customers, teachers serve their students. They equipped themselves with a valuable toolkit to bring into their classrooms.

Entrepreneurs, how can you rethink your approach to better serve your customers? How can reframing your mindset change your journey?

You can be unsure about what you want to do, but still be on the right track.

At the start of her freshman year, Alexa Carter was uncertain about the direction this new path would take. Despite her doubts, Alexa embraced the Engler Program and launched her business, Rising Rolls Baking Company, centered around her innovative "chili roll" concept.

Since then, Alexa's venture has captured the interest of both media and customers in Nebraska, as she introduces her products to the community. As she prepares to showcase her delicious products at the East Campus Tailgates during Husker gamedays this fall, she is showing no signs of slowing down her path with Rising Rolls.

Join in with host Olivia Vanderford in welcoming Alexa Carter to this episode of the Engler Journey Podcast!

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0eQOsUI5jwhAa5Z9aatwJ0?si=EyPZS7NLQuu_vFxwKnYwrw

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-engler-journey/id1493280471?i=1000662496548

Launch! applications are due TODAY!

Launch! is a year-long program that teaches a team of high-school students and their teacher to plan, create, and launch a real-world company from the school. We bring the entrepreneurial mindset and process to the classroom and give permission for students and teachers to become entrepreneurs.

Open to all Teachers! Apply here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdBQz3EOVU8bNqbJ-lxGKQPK5pNAZn7yXwLxwLzXMPjdOFdgw/viewform?pli=1

Seth Wright, a junior in the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program, has turned an interest in woodworking into a start-up venture.

The idea for Scrappy Woodworks grew after Wright learned how to use equipment in Nebraska Innovation Studio. After his first project — building a set of co****le boards — Wright started to practice woodworking techniques on scrap boards around the shop. The work led to him upcycling the scraps into drink coasters, picture frames and cutting boards, which he has started to sell.

Learn more about Seth's journey by visiting https://bit.ly/3Wegt6Z.

University of Nebraska-Lincoln | |

Nothing easy is worth doing.

Seth Wright’s journey with Engler started when two people in his life, his track coach and college advisor, recommended the program to him. He decided to take the leap and discovered a passion for entrepreneurship that has fueled him in his business, Scrappy Woodworks.

As Seth creates his custom wood pieces for his customers for the love of his work, he also is pursuing his business for the people who have believed in him.

Join in with host Olivia Vanderford in welcoming Seth Wright to this episode of the Engler Journey Podcast!

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3YtPWp4VZdIJ7FF0ehAvRQ?si=9d6h9mfET9eCpPUCcaiQEw
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-engler-journey/id1493280471?i=1000660285693

Read about and watch one of our Engler alumni, D-Wayne on “What If…”!

D-Wayne Lincoln vocal entrepreneur D-Wayne Taylor is a high-energy MC, host, DJ, beatboxer, voiceover artist and media personality.

Empower your students to launch their own company!

Launch! is a year-long program that teaches a team of high-school students and their teacher to plan, create, and launch a real-world company from the school. We bring the entrepreneurial mindset and process to the classroom and give permission for students and teachers to become entrepreneurs.

Applications for Launch! 2024 are now open from August 2024 - April 2025.

Open to all Teachers! Apply here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdBQz3EOVU8bNqbJ-lxGKQPK5pNAZn7yXwLxwLzXMPjdOFdgw/viewform?pli=1

The Engler Journey Podcast, hosted by Olivia Vanderford, was featured on FeedSpot in the article, 15 Best Nebraska Business Podcasts! Read it here!

15 Best Nebraska Business Podcasts You Must Follow in 2024 Best Nebraska Business Podcasts to Listen to ⋅ 1. Weekly Market Roundup ⋅ 2. Market Journal ⋅ 3. Lincoln Real Estate Investing & Financial Planning Podcast ⋅ 4. Business Ethics, Walk the Talk

Cherishing the journey

Kailey Ziegler says that her photo encompasses big elements in her life that involve agriculture; the beauty Jesus created in flowers, and the people who surround her to make it all possible. Growing up on a farm, she has learned so many valuable lessons, learned how to work hard in caring for crops, and realized the importance of the people who surround her and make her who she is today.

Kailey says that the Engler community has been nothing but amazing through her journey in entrepreneurship. She has gained many amazing people, experiences, and life lessons that have grown her dream of continuing her family farm through some additional agri-tourism opportunities and an event space.

Entrepreneurs, what are some elements in your life that have led you onto the entrepreneurial path? How can cherishing life’s gifts help us on our journey?

Pushing past the limits.

Madison Kreifels started InfoFilm. in October of 2023, a business that showcases the story behind agricultural producer operations. The purpose of this is to increase operation transparency with the hope that it will increase consumer trust. To showcase this through her gallery photo, Mads wanted the reflection of a farm reflected in the lens of her camera.

The Engler Program has been incredibly influential on her entrepreneurial journey. The staff, especially Dave Lambe and Brennan Costello, have served as incredible mentors for her since launching her business. They've pushed her to challenge her goals and commit to a climb way larger than she had imagined. Mads says that she feels incredibly blessed to have been challenged by like-minded people to help her reach her full potential at Engler.

Entrepreneurs, how can you commit to a climb larger than your imagination? How can you find mentors to help you push further?

Creating your canvas

Sheridan Wilson has loved learning about range management since she did a plant ID in 4-H as a kid. Today, she is still passionate about native rangeland plants, the cows that eat them, and the ranchers that care for them.

One day, Sheridan was in the office with Tom Field, our program director, when he said that grasslands are a canvas, and every living thing on that canvas is a paintbrush. Grassland managers try to paint a picture on that canvas; an incredibly intricate and complex undertaking. Sheridan loved the quote and felt that it embodied the blending of science and art that range management and good grassland stewardship require.

Sheridan wants to provide a service for ranchers that helps them increase their profitability through rangeland management and is currently ideating what that looks like. The inclusion of the canvas in her gallery photo is also a representation of the business she is ideating and researching, a picture that is not yet painted but is not without a vision. Sheridan describes her gallery photo as an illustration, not of her artistic skills, but of her role as a painter of our grasslands.

Entrepreneurs, how will you illustrate your canvas to craft your vision of entrepreneurship? How can you take your passions and begin a business venture?

Early this month, we mourned the loss of our beloved founder, Paul Engler. As a community, we celebrated the life, legacy, and impact Paul has made on our past and present Engler entrepreneurs.

Many of our students, staff, and alumni traveled to Amarillo, Texas to attend Paul’s funeral in person. In Lincoln, a mass dedicated to Paul was held at the Newman Center for other students and alumni to attend.

We will forever be thankful for Paul’s commitment to our program and entrepreneurship, and ensure his legacy lives on forever.

Discovering your passions

For Emma Schmidt, llamas have been a constant in her life since she first started walking them when she was three years old. She started this hobby with a partnership with a llama named Dunnie, who became her best friend. After this experience, she was given the opportunity to train one of the new llamas for her local 4-H program named Picasso.

After working hard to train Picasso, Emma competed at the North American International Livestock Exposition. Though she was just competing to have fun, she ended up winning the Grand Champion Performance for ALSA & Reserve Grand Champion Performance for ILR. She received a handcrafted belt buckle that is a constant reminder that hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard. Her belt buckle and llama are featured in her photo.

Emma started Schmidt Girl's Farms as an SAE project, and the goal of her business is to produce high-quality animals at an affordable price and to make showing accessible for anyone who wants to try it.

Emma says that without the Engler Program, she thinks she would be on an entirely different path. She wouldn't have grown into the person she is today and has become a person she is proud of. Engler is a place where she has been challenged to grow and make her dreams a reality.