2025 Leadership Changes at Cattle Trace

By Scout Nelson

U.S. Cattle Trace, a key player in the cattle industry focused on enhancing traceability, has announced its leadership for 2025. Joe Leathers of Guthrie, Texas, will take on the role of chairman, while Cory Schultz from Shepherd, Montana, will step in as chair elect.

Joe Leathers, with a rich history that began at the age of 19 as a cowboy, has climbed the ranks to significant leadership roles within the industry. His tenure at the 6666 Ranch began in 1998, where he ascended to general manager by 2008. Leathers' early recognition of the importance of electronic identification for cattle contributed significantly to the foundational work of U.S. Cattle Trace. His involvement since 2011, including active participation in pilot programs, has been crucial in shaping a traceability system that is voluntary, efficient, and driven by producers.

Alongside Leathers, Cory Schultz brings a wealth of experience from the livestock marketing sector. As a representative for Northern Livestock Video and managing cattle sales at prominent auction yards, Schultz has a deep understanding of the market dynamics and the necessity of traceability solutions that support producers and strengthen industry relationships.

Under their leadership, U.S. Cattle Trace aims to continue advancing a traceability framework that not only meets the needs of today’s cattle producers but also addresses future challenges in the industry.

Their combined expertise and dedication to the sector are set to guide U.S. Cattle Trace as it enhances its systems and expands its reach, ensuring the U.S. cattle industry remains at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.

The appointments of Leathers and Schultz are seen as a strategic move to bolster the organization’s mission to implement a robust traceability system across the nation, essential for enhancing disease response capabilities and market access for U.S. cattle producers.

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