At Kent, we are passionate about the beef industry. The desire for a better beef feed is what started the company in 1927 and continues to drive our efforts today. A big part of the driving force behind our innovations is the passion our team has for the beef industry. To learn more about what fuels our teams’ passion, we asked some of them a few questions.

JACKIE CLEAVER – Virginia and West Virginia

Q: How long have you had cattle and/or been part of the beef industry?

A: I have been involved in the cattle industry my entire life. I was born and raised on my family’s beef cattle operation that focused on commercial brood cows and stocker calves. I obtained my first cow when I turned five. I was given the opportunity to pick her out of a herd my mom had purchased, and I can remember that moment like it was yesterday. I have continued to grow my herd and interest in beef production since. I now currently own and operate my own cow/calf herd based mainly of commercial cows. I retain my own females into a replacement program.  My weaned calves are backgrounded and sold through the family’s stocker operation in load lots to finishing yards.  

Q: What is the most enjoyable part of being in the beef industry?

A: Within my position at Kent as a TSM in the Mid-Atlantic region, I enjoy being able to share my personal experiences and successes with other producers. I enjoy knowing that I can be a part of a cattle producer’s success, from that newborn calf in a cow/calf operation to balancing a ration in a finishing yard.

Q: What Kent product(s) do you feel have made a difference for you or your customers?

A: I feel our Energilass Rumen Booster tubs, ArrivalMax Complete and Kent Performance Primer have made a huge impact personally on my own operation as well as my family’s backgrounding/stocker operation. Working closely with them on the health management team of their operation I know the importance of getting calves started with low stress and minimum treatments is key to profitability. Once we started using the Kent products we saw a great response in getting calves started and through the weaning period efficiently. We run this operation in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia and start a lot of high-risk, high-stressed co-mingled sale barn cattle. By utilizing Kent products into the program our family has been able to grow and expand the cattle operation with continued success.

Q: What is your favorite cut of beef?

A: A juicy prime ribeye steak.