Tammy Gantt with the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association presented to the University of Florida’s Florida Equine Ambassador inaugural cohort via virtual classroom on March 5.
Gantt showcased why Marion County is the Horse Capital of the World® and discussed the myriad of equine or equine-adjacent job opportunities in Florida.
She also highlighted key events in her life that led to her current position as Vice President, Member Services, Events and Sales at the FTBOA. Gantt discussed her upbringing on a rural family farm, her formal education and a career in the industry that began in racetrack management. She highlighted how strong relationships help equine businesses achieve more in the industry and stressed the importance of high value internships, volunteer experiences and mentorships.
Students asked Gantt about the importance of learning at international veterinary schools; how lobbying for the horse industry differs at the local, state and federal levels; equine biosecurity and disease protocols at the association level; and equine law.
Animal Sciences Youth Horse Programs Coordinator and Horse Judging Coach Alyssa Ohmstede coordinated the presentation, asking Gantt to discuss important traits required in her position.
“I believe it’s important to have a passion for the [equine] industry,” Gantt said. “If you love horses, it makes sense that your dedication and ability to create change in support of horses will drive you further.”
Launched in December of 2025 out of the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, the program was created by Ohmstead as a pathway for students to explore the equine industry beyond traditional youth roles. The program exposes students to the horse industry resources offered by UF.
Counties with 4-H Ambassadors
“I think a lot of times you can get pigeonholed with the horse stuff, whether you [are a veterinarian] or a horse trainer. So, we wanted to let [the students] know there’s other things they can do,” Ohmstede said. “We wanted to give them the opportunity to network with people in the industry and build relationships as they go into their professional careers.”
The Florida Equine Ambassador program provides 4-H members the opportunity to develop leadership skills, network with industry professionals, expand equine knowledge and become immersed in Florida’s equine industry while serving each respective community. Set up as a service-oriented program, six 4-H members with core values and leading principles of 4-H are recruited.
Return to the March 17 issue of Wire to Wire
