Clarendon College RFO
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Ranch and Feedlot Operations
The Ranch and Feedlot Operations Program at Clarendon College has a rich history, dating back to 1974. We believe in tradition and preserving our heritage, while also recognizing the need to adapt and implement new technology and production methods to ensure a strong future.
The RFO Program helps equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to face complex issues - with the ultimate goal of leading the change and advancing the agricultural industry.
Thanks to our partnerships with industry leaders, we are able to provide students with valuable hands-on learning and networking opportunities not found in a traditional class setting.
Job Opportunities
The Ranch & Feedlot Operations program helps one develop the knowledge and skills necessary to take advantage of the many employment opportunities in the industry. Graduates of the program are employed in a variety of agricultural areas.
RANCH AND FEEDLOT OPERATIONS
Associate of Applied Science* 1 2 3
|
Completion of the curriculum outlined below leads to the Associate of Applied Science degree and qualifies the student to pursue further college training or seek employment in the field of ranch and feedlot operations. |
FRESHMAN YEAR
|
First Semester |
Sem. Hrs. |
Second Semester |
Sem. Hrs. |
|
3 |
AGAH 1343 Animal Health |
3 |
|
|
3 |
3 |
||
| AGAH 1447 Animal Reproduction |
4 |
3 |
|
|
3 |
4 |
||
|
3 |
3 |
||
|
4 |
3 |
||
|
20 |
19 |
SOPHOMORE YEAR
|
First Semester |
Sem. Hrs. |
Second Semester |
Sem. Hrs. |
|
ENGL 1301 English Composition I |
3 |
SPCH 1315 Public Speaking |
3 |
|
Social & Behavioral Science Elective |
3 |
Visual & Performing Arts Elective |
3 |
|
MATH 1314 College Algebra or Laboratory Science |
3-4 |
|
|
|
Electives |
3-7 |
Electives |
3-7 |
|
|
12-16 |
|
13-17 |
Notes:
*AAS Degree - TSI Completion or Exemption Required
*Students seeking the AAS in Ranch and Feedlot Operations Program must have completed the Ranch and Feedlot Operations Certificate Program. The Ranch and Feedlot Operations Certificate Program is a limited enrollment program and specialized admission requirements apply. Students must meet the general institutional admission requirements and the specialized admission requirements for the Ranch and Feedlot Operations Certificate Program. See Ranch and Feedlot Operations Certificate Program.
Capstone Experience: AGMG 2301
Option I: The student should select electives that will best contribute to his/her future career.
Option II: For students planning to complete a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences (BAAS) Degree at a four-year institution, students should complete all technical courses listed above and the general education component of the degree. Electives should be selected in consultation with college advisor.
Option III: For students planning to complete a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture at a four-year institution, the student should consult the degree requirements for agriculture majors and select appropriate electives in consultation with a college advisor.
Contact Us
Tye Chesser
RFO Director
575-635-3109 - Cell
Email
Tye M. Chesser is a seasoned professional with a robust background in agricultural education, sales, and ranch management. With a Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Extension Education from New Mexico State University and an Associate's degree in Ranch and Feedlot Operations from Clarendon College, Tye combines extensive academic knowledge with practical experience in the agricultural sector. Currently, Mr. Chesser serves as the Director and Instructor for the Ranch & Feedlot Operations program at Clarendon College, a role in which he manages the program’s operations, budget, and curriculum, while also continuing to educate the next generation of agricultural professionals. This position builds on Tye's previous experience as an Instructor in the same program, where he played a crucial role in its expansion and development.
In addition to his educational role, Mr. Chesser has a distinguished career in sales, representing several prominent companies in the western wear industry. As a Sales Representative for American Hat Company, he has successfully engaged with western wear stores across New Mexico, providing valuable insights on product quality and market trends. He has also worked with Texas Saddlery Inc., Fenoglio Boot Company, and Kimes Ranch, showcasing his ability to drive sales and build strong client relationships.
Mr. Chesser’s diverse career includes significant experience in ranch management and operational roles. He served as a Ranch Foreman at Chesser Ranch Inc./Burnt Well Guest Ranch, overseeing all aspects of ranch management and contributing to the guest experience. His entrepreneurial spirit was demonstrated through the ownership of Muleshoe Hat Co., where he managed a mobile business specializing in high-end cowboy hats.
Earlier in his career, Mr. Chesser held roles ranging from a Credit Analyst at Farm
Credit of New Mexico to Head Wrangler at Lost Valley Guest Ranch. His broad expertise
spans financial analysis, team management, and pharmaceutical sales, reflecting a
versatile skill set and a commitment to excellence in every endeavor.
A dedicated professional and active community member, Mr. Chesser has served as Faculty
Senate President at Clarendon College presiding over Faculty Senate meetings and representing
the faculty at the monthly board meetings. He also served as Vice President of the
Dexter FFA Alumni, supporting fundraising initiatives and coaching FFA judging teams.
He has been involved with various agricultural organizations, including the National
Agricultural Marketing Association and Phi Theta Kappa honors society.
With a deep-rooted passion for agriculture and education, Tye M. Chesser continues
to make a significant impact in the industry, driving innovation, fostering education,
and maintaining a strong connection to the agricultural community.
Austin Adams
RFO Instructor
806-205-0199 - Cell
Email
Austin Adams grew up on a diversified livestock operation in Hedley, TX. During his youth career, he showed all types of livestock and participated in many state qualifying teams within FFA and 4-H. After graduation from high school, Austin attended Clarendon College, where he earned his associate degree and participated on the livestock judging team. After graduating from Clarendon, he went on to study at Texas Tech University and was privileged to be on the 2016 National Champion Livestock Judging Team. Upon completion of his Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science, he was offered an assistantship and the opportunity to teach in the Department of Animal Science at Texas Tech University while studying for a master's degree in Ruminant Nutrition and Reproductive Physiology. Currently, Austin and wife Dr. Christy Adams, reside in Clarendon, Texas, where he teaches in the Ranch and Feedlot Operations program at Clarendon College. In addition, he manages Schaefer Farms, a progressive Purebred Angus operation, and jointly owns Adams Cattle Company specializing in both commercial and club calf production.
Contact Us
Clarendon College Ranch & Feedlot Operations Program
PO Box 968 | 1122 College Dr.
Clarendon, Texas 79226
806-874-3571 | 800-687-9737