The life of a farrier is not for everyone, and the knowledgeable hoof-care practitioners who appear on the pages of this 12th edition of the American Farriers Journal’s “Getting Stared in Hoof Care” don’t sugarcoat the challenges that someone who chooses this profession is likely to face. One of the reasons for these challenges is the complexity of the work at hand and the marriage of unique skill sets needed to achieve professional success. But you will have an advantage over many of those farriers who paved the way in this profession.

Build Connections

This year, American Farriers Journal is celebrating its 45th anniversary and we are reminded that in the not too distant past, farrier-to-farrier relationships were — at best — guarded. Knowledge wasn’t shared freely.

The world in which you are becoming a farrier — as evidenced by the many articles here that have been written by or feature prominently today’s top hoof-care experts — is very different. You are surrounded by resources to help you become the business savvy farrier that you aspire to be.

As you complete your education at farrier school, and well after you graduate and work as an apprentice, you’ll have access to a large network of farriers. Some of these farriers are veteran hoof-care experts who understand that being a mentor and sharing the lessons they had to learn the hard way (so you don’t have to) can elevate the entire industry. Others are early- and mid-career level practitioners, continuing to expand their own knowledge, whose memories of farrier school and those early struggles are still fresh. Each offers something of value to the farrier with an open mind to receive it.

Keep an Open Mind

In this magazine alone, you’ll find a variety of viewpoints and experiences I hope you’ll give thoughtful consideration. These include important lessons about how to run a business — a multifaceted topic that is critical to your success but often receives less emphasis in favor of those more directly related to the hoof. Farrier school educators reveal the criteria they use to determine whether a client should be hired and/or when they should be fired; and seven International Horseshoeing Hall of Fame members offer their best pieces of advice — just to name a few.

Make Your Mark

Remember as you try out all of these ideas and see how they fit, that regardless of your current experience level — you too are impacting the industry. Your engagement is critical to move it forward. The questions that you ask as you read these articles, attend classes or participate in clinics, will encourage new discussions and discoveries. You are building off of the knowledge that has been shared by the farriers who have come before you, but you are already shaping the future of hoof care. American Farriers Journal is your publication and an educational ally. I encourage you to contact me at any time and share your ideas, questions and struggles. Call or text me at (262) 599-1438 or email
kkubisiak@lessitermedia.com.

Best wishes in your new career.

Kristen Kubisiak
Managing Editor