04/16/2026
Meet Our Judge!!!
Payton Dahmer is originally from Nevada, Missouri, where he grew up deeply involved in the livestock industry through the 4H and FFA programs. He attended Butler Community College and Kansas State University, competing on highly successful livestock judging teams at both institutions. Payton earned his master’s and Ph.D. in Animal Science from K-State before joining the faculty in the Department of Animal Sciences and Industry. Currently, he serves as coach of the K-State Livestock Judging and Meat Animal Evaluation Teams, which have earned both National Champion and Reserve National Champion honors during his tenure. In addition to coaching, Payton teaching courses in livestock nutrition, selection, and management, and advises undergraduate and graduate students. He also supervises the K-State Sheep and Goat Center, where he oversees research, extension programming, and the production of club lambs and seedstock. When he’s not on the road with the judging team, Payton enjoys judging livestock shows across the country.
