Northern Oklahoma College has named Thomas Owings as the new Livestock Judging coach for 2026–27.
Owings, a native of Huntsville, Missouri, is part of a family business, “Owings Genetics,” a livestock operation specializing in cattle, swine and goats. He grew up in a family deeply involved in the livestock genetics industry, an experience that helped develop his passion for livestock evaluation and the agricultural industry.
He earned an Associate of Science degree from Redlands Community College in El Reno, Oklahoma, where he competed on the nationally recognized Livestock Judging Team.
He then transferred to the University of Arkansas, where he received numerous livestock judging honors and graduated in 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural education and extension. During his time at Arkansas, Owings was also selected as a member of the inaugural 2025 Top Judge Program.
He is excited to join Northern Oklahoma College as the livestock judging coach.
“I look forward to mentoring student-athletes, building on the program’s tradition of excellence, and helping students develop the knowledge, skills, work ethic and leadership qualities needed for success both in and beyond the livestock industry,” he said.
Owings added that he is honored to join the NOC family and is eager to invest in the next generation of livestock evaluators while building lasting relationships with students, alumni, producers and industry partners.
“I’m truly honored and humbled to join the Northern Oklahoma College family. Livestock judging has opened countless doors for me, but more importantly, it has introduced me to incredible mentors and lifelong friends,” he said. “I’m excited for the opportunity to help students develop not only their evaluation skills, but also the confidence, work ethic and leadership abilities that will serve them throughout their careers. I can’t wait to get to work and continue building on the proud tradition of NOC Livestock Judging.”
Owings replaces Jennifer Bedwell who led the program six years.
Northern Oklahoma College, the state’s first public two-year community college, is a multi-campus, land-grant institution that provides high quality, accessible, and affordable educational opportunities and services.
NOC serves nearly 3,100 students through the home campus in Tonkawa, Enid, and NOC/OSU Gateway Program in Stillwater, and the University Center in Ponca City. Of these students about 80% receive financial aid and/or scholarships. 75% of NOC students complete their degree with zero debt.
The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers associate degrees in three general areas: Arts, Science and Applied Science; the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs; and the Accreditation Commission for Education and Nursing.
For more information about Northern Oklahoma College please call (580) 628-6208 or visit the NOC website at www.noc.edu.
