At just 17 years old, Klaire Reibling is shaking up the Thumb ag scene with her impressive entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality in livestock nutrition. As a senior and proud member of the Laker FFA chapter, Klaire has blazed a trail as an Umbarger Show Feed dealer, running her own business—Reibling Grain and Show Feed—that serves Huron, Tuscola and Sanilac counties. Her journey into agribusiness wasn’t just by chance; it stemmed from her decade-long experience in competitive beef cattle showing, where she realized the profound impact of high-quality feed on livestock performance.
Driven by her hands-on experience at shows, Klaire quickly identified a gap in the market. When she couldn’t find an Umbarger Show Feed dealer in her area, she didn’t hesitate to take matters into her own hands. Fueled by the desire to ensure her own cattle stood out, she sought to become a dealer herself—a decision that showcased her initiative, dedication and relentless work ethic. Today, Klaire proudly offers over 150 products tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of her clients, setting her apart.
What makes Klaire’s business model unique is her personal approach. She doesn’t just sell feed; she builds relationships. Meeting each client personally, Klaire discusses their specific goals for their livestock and provides tailored recommendations to help them achieve their desired results. This service has led her to create trustworthy rapport with her customers, making them feel confident in the products she offers. As she continues to build her clientele, her active involvement in the show cattle industry enables her to network with potential clients at county, state and even national levels.
Klaire possesses a keen business acumen that underpins her plans for the future. She aims to expand her customer base further and deepen her understanding of the livestock nutrition market to consistently provide top-notch service. She plans to continue breeding and selling quality livestock to area youth, ensuring the next generation has access to the same high-standard livestock.
Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, Klaire is also set on furthering her education after high school. She plans to attend Ferris State University to pursue a degree in Business Management, laying the groundwork for an even more impactful career. Her journey exemplifies the essence of the Michigan FFA’s mission, showcasing young leaders dedicated to excellence in agriculture while fostering a sense of community.
Klaire’s achievements have rightfully earned her a spot as a finalist for the 2025 Michigan FFA Star in Agriscience Award. She stands alongside fellow finalists Rayne Guza from the Ubly FFA Chapter and Grace Torsch from the Montague FFA Chapter, all of whom are making significant contributions to the agricultural field.
As we applaud Klaire Reibling’s accomplishments and ambition, it’s important to support young leaders like her. Please consider investing in the future of agriculture by supporting the Michigan FFA Foundation.
