Thiago Martins, assistant research and extension professor in beef reproduction, organized the recent Beef Camp, a two-week immersive workshop, in collaboration with Gente do Agro, a leading Brazilian initiative focused on developing high-performance professionals for the agricultural sector. The program was specifically designed to expose Brazilian beef industry leaders — including prominent beef producers, university professors and undergraduate students in agriculture — to the U.S. beef production system, academic excellence and research innovation.
Held on the University of Missouri campus and surrounding areas, the program featured an integrated curriculum that combined academic instruction with real-world experiences. Participants engaged in a series of lectures and discussions led by faculty members from the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR). Topics covered included beef cattle nutrition, reproductive technologies, pasture management, animal health, genetics, economics and sustainability — all tailored to reflect the realities of U.S. beef systems while encouraging comparison with Brazilian production models.
In addition to classroom learning, the group participated in several technical field visits to local farms, cow-calf operations and allied industry facilities. These visits provided a practical lens through which participants could analyze differences in production systems, management practices and technological adoption. One of the distinguishing aspects of the program was the opportunity for Brazilian stakeholders to interact directly with U.S. producers, researchers and students, fostering peer-to-peer learning and strengthening cross-cultural understanding.
“The success of Beef Camp extended beyond academic content,” Martins said. “It significantly enhanced the University of Missouri’s international visibility and solidified its reputation as a global leader in agricultural research and education. The event helped to build strong institutional relationships with key figures in the Brazilian agribusiness sector and facilitated knowledge transfer across borders.”
The program created meaningful networking opportunities and laid the groundwork for future collaborative efforts, including potential student and faculty exchanges, joint research initiatives, international internships and industry partnerships.
“Participants left the program with not only an enriched understanding of the U.S. beef industry but also with a renewed commitment to innovation and leadership in their respective roles within the Brazilian agricultural landscape,” Martins said. “In summary, Beef Camp was a strategic and impactful initiative that bridged academic knowledge with industry practice, and domestic expertise with international engagement — an excellent example of how land-grant universities can contribute to global food systems and workforce development.”
