Internships closed for 2025
An Internship Of A Different Kind
When we thought up our summer internship program we knew we wanted it to be different. There are a lot of programs that take advantage of cheap labor and we wanted to focus on providing a well rounded education that will prepare students for a successful career in agriculture. Interns will learn everything from ranch financials and record keeping to stockmanship, herd health, direct marketing beef, the planning and execution of a horse sale and of course the less glamorous- but equally important tasks of irrigation and fencing.
What We’re Looking For
Our Internship program gives preference to agriculture related majors, but anyone with a hunger for learning and a strong work ethic are encouraged to apply. A successful applicant will be experienced horseback (this is very important as the intern will be given a project horse for the summer), have excellent people skills, and be eager to contribute in a meaningful way on a daily basis. As with every experience, your level of success in our program directly relates to how much you choose to put into it. Our employees have a wealth of knowledge in everything from horsemanship to stockmanship and welding.
Due to the thousands of emails we receive year round about our internship program we will only be responding to emails about our internship program from the 1st of November 2024 and applications will be the 22nd of November 2024.
If you’re interested in a complete job description including pay please email us with “Internship 2025” In the subject line anytime after Nov.1st.
Pitchforkranchbeef@gmail.com
2024 Interns- Lane Deckard and Torry Taylor
Torry: “When the application opened for the Pitchfork internship I wanted it so bad I honestly couldn't think of anything else! I stayed up at night thinking about it, wondering what I was going to do if I didn't get it, and what I would do if I did. In the end, I did and it was such an experience. I grew up a horseback and in the ranching industry so I wasn't completely green but I was still super nervous walking into it.
That first week was hard! I missed my family something awful, I was worried about some of my colts killing me and on top of that I ran my dog over like the third day I was there (he was 100% fine after a few weeks.) After that, I honestly wanted to call it quits and go home. Then, we had our first branding, that changed everything for me! Roping and riding my colt at that first branding brought my spirits up! Plus, everyone was so welcoming and kind. I didn't know anyone walking into it but by the end of the summer I really enjoyed everyone's company.
The Pitchfork gave me the opportunity to ride a bunch of outside horses and personal colts, we worked on our horsemanship almost every day. I learned so much more about rangeland management, stockmanship, what goes into a horse sale, ranch management, and of course my two favorites roping and riding colts.
All I can tell upcoming interns is bring a few horses, don't be nervous about working there and ask every question you can think of! Everyone is so nice, they are willing to help out and everyone has something good to say. Overall, my summer at the Pitchfork is something I will never forget, I recommend it to any college kid wanting to gain more knowledge!
Lane: “Can you just copy and paste what I wrote last year?”
Lane Deckard Intern 2023
“The Pitchfork Ranch Internship was one that I didn't want to end. It felt like time flew by. It didn't take long to feel right at home with everyone on the ranch being so nice and welcoming. I was learning new things every day while I was on the ranch by asking questions, evaluating decisions, and even just observing. Everyone on the ranch was experienced with all aspects which enabled me to gain new abilities over the summer. This internship has sharpened my knowledge in many areas. From horsemanship to stockmanship and even stewardship I gained valuable hands-on experience. The opportunity to brand cattle and to train horses made this by far one of my favorite summers. I would highly recommend this program to anyone that is looking for a great internship.”
Joey Vasseur Intern 2022
“When I was driving to Meeteetse, Wyoming in May to work somewhere new for 3 months, I was nervous to say the least. But the truth is working on the Pitchfork this summer was one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done and the people there were so welcoming and helpful that I forgot about being nervous by my second day. Throughout the summer I learned a lot about the ranch and how it runs; from looking at finances to fixing fence it didn’t seem like I missed anything. I asked a lot of questions and left with a lot of new knowledge at the end of the summer. I got to learn a lot about horsemanship, roping, animal health, water rights, and other general knowledge about what goes on every day at a ranch like this. If you put the effort forth to learn a thing or two while you’re out here, the people here will meet you halfway. If you are interested even in the slightest, I recommend you apply for this internship because you will not regret it.”
Pilar Martinez 2021 Intern
“The worst part about this internship is that it had to end. Being lucky enough to work on the Pitchfork means working alongside some of the handiest people in the Bighorn Basin. Between coworkers and friends that come to brandings, you will be able to learn a lot about horsemanship, stockmanship, and roping. I was able to learn something new everyday by watching, listening, and asking the crew questions. Everyone is so willing to teach and has so much knowledge to share, which makes it the perfect work environment.
The Pitchfork Ranch internship is what you make of it, so my biggest piece of advice would be to ask questions. Working with a colt was new to me, so I asked a lot of questions and I received a lot of excellent feedback. I learned more than I could’ve imagined in my time here. This program is amazing and I would 11/10 recommend it to anyone looking for an internship.”
- Pilar Martinez
