University of Kentucky Ag Equine Programs will host a Career and Opportunity Fair at 5 p.m. EDT Sept. 29 in the UK Student Center Ballrooms. The annual event is free and open to all current and future college students who are interested in learning more about the myriad of professional opportunities that exist in the equine industry, an industry with an international footprint.  

New this year is the expansion of the fair to include networking and informational opportunities for high school students in addition to the traditional college student audience. Along with a chance to network with equine organizations, a portion of the event will also be dedicated to career and academic exploration for high school students interested in pursuing equine-related degree programs, whether at UK or other Kentucky schools.  

The University of Louisville is the food and beverage sponsor. UK, UofL, Midway University, Bluegrass Community and Technical College Equine, and the North American Racing Academy through the Bluegrass Community and Technical College, will also be on hand to talk with high school students interested in pursuing an equine-related degree.   

“Exposing students, both college-level and high school students, to the wide variety of careers within the equine industry early is essential to helping them find their place,” said Savannah Robin, equine internship coordinator and event organizer. “We must make sure they know they have a fit and that there are endless opportunities within the equine industry to make a successful career.”  

Registration is now open to students interested in attending as well as to organizations wishing to match job, internship, volunteer or other opportunities with equine-passionate students. Registration for students is free, but attendees must RSVP by Sept. 22 for a spot at the event.  

“Similarly, employers are seeking the next generation of the workforce and this event is a prime place to recruit those future leaders within all equine-related careers,” Robin said.  

Equine businesses who have already secured a spot include Ardent Animal Health, Central Kentucky Riding for Hope, Claiborne Farm, Coolmore America, Gluck Equine Research Center, Godolphin LLC, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Hooves of Hope Equestrian Center Inc., Justin's Place, Keeneland Association Inc., Kentucky Equine Management Internship, Kentucky Equine Research, Lane's End Farm, Maker's Mark Secretariat Center, McMahon and Hill Bloodstock LLC, Midway University, Park Equine Hospital, Split Rock Jumping Tour, Spy Coast Farm, Three Chimneys Farm, University of Louisville and U.S. Equestrian. 

“Emphasis on ‘Career and Opportunity’ is central to this important annual event,” said James MacLeod, professor of veterinary science and director of UK Ag Equine Programs. “The substance and scope of equine-related career paths continue to grow, and this will be an exciting convergence of employers, current equine science students, prospective equine science students and educational organizations.” 

Those interested in attending should make sure they have a Handshake account. Employer and student registration is live at https://uky.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1XNmcZR4fsmWsse. For questions about the event or help with registration, please contact Robin at savannah.robin@uky.edu.