“Be gritty, be prompt, be willing to learn,” are the three characteristics that Julia Lundeen says every new farrier needs to succeed in the industry

Julia Lundeen was honored as the 2023 Rising Shoeing Star Award winner at the International Hoof-Care Summit in Cincinnati, Ohio. The program recognizes farriers making incredible progress in their first 3 years after farrier school. In partnership with industry suppliers, the program highlights the importance of education and motivates new farriers to succeed. The 2023 program sponsors are Pyranha Animal Health, Victory Racing Plate Co. and American Farriers Journal.

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After starting school to earn an engineering degree, Lundeen made a major shift. She didn’t want to sit behind a desk. She wanted to see her work make a difference. A conversation with her farrier opened her eyes for a new path forward.

Immediate Challenges

Lundeen identified a major obstacle after graduating from the Minnesota School of Horseshoeing in Ramsey, Minn.

“I knew what I needed to do in my mind,” she recalls, “but my hands didn’t have the skills.”

Lundeen connected with mentors, including Mark Thorkildson, whom she credits for helping her improve.

“Mark taught me how to use clinchers,” Lundeen says, adding it was one of the most foundational skills in her hoof-care toolbox.

Mentors have played a large role in Lundeen’s education and career. These mentors included Minnesota School of Horseshoeing teachers, who nominated her for the Rising Shoeing Star Award.

Importance of Mentors

Upon graduating, Lundeen started Gray Duck…