World Dairy Expo: Announces official judges for 2026

MADISON, WIS. – The eight individuals who will serve as official judges during World Dairy Expo 2026 have been confirmed. Nominated and selected by this year’s Dairy Cattle Show Exhibitors, these individuals will evaluate North America’s finest dairy cattle on the colored shavings, Sunday, September 27 through Friday, October 2.

The official judges for the 59th World Dairy Expo are as follows:   

International Ayrshire Show

Official: David Hanson, Nicolette, Minn.

International Brown Swiss Show

Official: Richard “RT” Thompson, Darlington, Wis.

International Guernsey Show

Official: Chris Lang, Big Prairie, Ohio

International Holstein Show

Official: Ryan Krohlow, Poynette, Wis.

International Junior Holstein Show

Official: Ben Wallace, Stoughton, Wis.

International Jersey Show

Official: Mike Berry, Powell Butte, Ore.

International Milking Shorthorn Show

Official: Matt Henkes, Luana, Iowa

International Red & White Show

Official: Aaron Eaton, Marietta, N.Y.

Serving as the meeting place of the global dairy industry, World Dairy Expo is the premier forum for the global dairy community to learn, share, create commerce and showcase competition. The annual event will return to Madison, Wis. September 29 – October 2, 2026. Dairy producers can experience the world’s largest dairy-focused trade show, a world-class dairy cattle show, attend seminars, meetings and presentations highlighting the latest and greatest in the industry and connect with other producers. Download the World Dairy Expo mobile app, visit worlddairyexpo.com or follow WDE on FacebookInstagramLinkedInSpotify, or YouTube for more information.