The Maryland Horse Foundation, in partnership with the Maryland Horse Industry Board and University of Maryland Equine Studies, announced on May 27 that six participants have been selected for the 2026 Maryland Horse Career Program, which will take place from June 1 to June 5.
Launched in 2017 as the Maryland Thoroughbred Career Program, the newly expanded initiative is part of the Howard & Sondra Bender Educational Series. The program aims to introduce emerging professionals to a range of career opportunities within Maryland’s horse industry. It now covers various sectors including racing, breeding, sport and competition, recreation, veterinary and farrier services, event management, aftercare, and equine-assisted services.
Throughout the week-long program, participants will visit equine operations across Maryland and engage in group discussions as well as professional development sessions. Cricket Goodall, executive director of the Maryland Horse Foundation, said: “The Maryland Horse Career Program continues to provide an incredible opportunity for emerging leaders to experience firsthand the depth and diversity of Maryland’s horse industry. From veterinary medicine and breeding to racing, recreation, education, welfare and business operations, participants gain valuable insight into the many pathways to a career available within this important agricultural and economic sector.”
Anne Litz, executive director of the Maryland Horse Industry Board, said: “The level of curiosity, passion and professionalism shown by this year’s applicants was truly impressive. These participants represent the future of the horse industry, and we want them to see firsthand why Maryland is the place for them. Horses are a huge part of Maryland agriculture and partnership programs like this help cultivate the next generation of industry leaders.”
Graduates remain eligible for additional training support through the foundation’s Work Experience Program. The state’s horse industry contributes approximately $2.9 billion annually to its economy while supporting more than 28,000 jobs across agriculture sectors statewide.
The Department operates from Annapolis, offering services such as animal health monitoring and food safety inspections while promoting local agriculture throughout its statewide network, according to the official website.
