A sheep shearing school organized by the Indiana Sheep Association will take place on March 14, 2024, at Purdue University’s Sheep Unit in West Lafayette, Indiana. The workshop, scheduled from 09:00 to 16:00 at 5480 ASREC Lane, aims to equip both beginners and advanced shearers with essential skills. Check-in will begin at 08:30.
The event receives sponsorship from the Indiana Sheep and Wool Market Development Program, highlighting the ongoing demand for new sheep shearers as experienced professionals retire. Gerald Kelly, manager of the Purdue Sheep Unit and co-organizer of the shearing school, emphasized the importance of training new talent, stating, “There is a continuous need for new sheep shearers as the older generations retire.” He added that Purdue has supported the sheep industry for over 150 years.
Workshop Details and Registration Information
The school will offer both beginner and advanced classes tailored to the participants’ experience levels. The advanced class is designed for those who have prior shearing instruction, can shear independently, and are looking to enter the profession. This session will provide an opportunity for participants to refine their techniques under the guidance of experienced instructors. Notably, Matt Kennedy, a master shearer and organizer of the workshop, comes from a family with a long tradition of shearing school instructors.
For beginners, the registration fee is set at $50, which includes the cost of the workshop, lunch, and required shearing equipment. Participants are encouraged to bring their own shearing tools if available. The workshop will accommodate a maximum of 20 beginners and 5 advanced participants, ensuring personalized attention and instruction.
Registration forms for both beginner and advanced classes can be found at indianasheep.com. Completed forms, along with the registration fee, must be mailed to Emma O’Brien, executive director of the Indiana Sheep Association, at 6840 S. 280 E., Lebanon, IN 46052. To secure a spot, forms must be received by March 10, 2024, or before the classes reach capacity. Attendees will also need to sign a liability waiver as part of the registration process.
This initiative underscores the commitment of the Indiana Sheep Association and Purdue University to foster the next generation of skilled sheep shearers, ensuring the sustainability and growth of the sheep industry in Indiana and beyond.
