The Influence of AI — Genetic Trends, Industry Changes and Progress From the Bull Studs

Finding Angus outliers is both easier than it used to be and more competitive than ever. Aaron Arnett, Dick Beck and Doug Frank share decades of experience in the artificial insemination (AI) business, describing the changes in both the breed and the beef industry. In this episode of The Angus Conversation, they discuss everything from the ways they find bulls to trends in traits of importance. Technology changes like AI protocols and sorted semen will continue to influence the breed. HOSTS: Miranda Reiman and Mark McCully GUESTS: Aaron Arnett, Dick Beck and Doug Frank  Aaron Arnett, director of genetic programs for ST Genetics, grew up on a cow-calf operation in Ohio. He graduated with a degree in animal science from The Ohio State University and began his career in the beef genetics business right out of college before starting with ST Genetics in 2015. Dick Beck, vice president of sales and marketing at ORIgen, has been involved in livestock production and marketing his entire life. As a former regional manager for the American Angus Association and general manager of Three Trees Ranch, Sharpsburg, Ga., he brought a well-rounded view of the industry to his position at ORIgen. He and his wife, Diane, have two daughters who were active in the National Junior Angus Association, with the third generation involved today.   Doug Frank was born and raised in central Missouri on a diversified farm that has raised registered Angus cattle since 1938. That family operation, Frank-Hazelrigg Cattle Co., currently markets 150 head of bulls and elite females annually. After graduating from the University of Missouri, Doug started his career at American Breeders Service in 1989 as a Beef Specialist and then Beef Sire Acquisition Manager. For the last 32 years Doug has served as the U.S. Beef Product Manager for ABS Global.SPONSORS:  SenseHub: Cattle reproductive success has relied on visual observation for decades until now. Utilizing ear tag monitors, the SenseHub® Cow Calf system provides 24/7 collection of data and insights you can use to detect heats and more with custom alerts and reports sent right to your smartphone, tablet or computer. Learn more at www.SenseHub-CowCalf.com. Angus Media: Are you ready to find your next influential Angus sire? Angus Journal subscribers will receive a free copy of the Angus Bull Book: Spring 2026 Angus Sire Directory, mailed right alongside their March edition. Visit www.AngusJournal.net to subscribe to the Angus Journal today. Don't miss news in the Angus breed. Visit www.AngusJournal.net and subscribe to the AJ Daily e-newsletter and our monthly magazine, the Angus Journal.