From Quebec to Texas: Fred Moreau’s CAEP Equine Training Program Experience
In the heart of Texas, a passionate young equine trainee is forging her path in horse training. Meet Fred Moreau, a 24-year-old from Quebec, Canada, whose lifelong love for horses has led her to the prestigious equine training program. As she embarks on this transformative journey, Fred is gaining invaluable experience and insight into the equine industry.
A Lifelong Passion
Fred’s fascination with horses began in her childhood. She is well-equipped for her dream career with a degree as a veterinary technician and a university certificate in animal production. But she yearned for more—an opportunity to learn from the best in the industry. “After a few years of working with trainers in Canada, I wanted to further my knowledge with the best in the industry. The cutting world is most active in Texas, hence why I chose to go there. CAEP was the bridge I needed to make it to the USA to work and learn alongside some of the best trainers and horses. My ultimate goal is to become a horse trainer, and with the help of CAEP, I’m one step closer!”
Training at T/K Cutting Horses
Fred is currently training at T/K Cutting Horses, operated by Tatum and Kylie Rice in Weatherford, Texas. “They are super easy to work for and communicate well. Their place is impeccable and efficient. It is easy to maintain and keep clean. The horses are super well taken care of, and it’s definitely a priority for them. They are kind people to be around,” Fred shared.
Each day begins with various responsibilities that keep her on her toes. Fred usually starts her day by saddling horses and penning cows. She also warms up and cools down horses for training, manages various maintenance tasks, administers medications, and assists with caring for foals, ensuring they and their mothers are healthy. “I often have to take horses to the vet or the show grounds, so I load them up and drive the truck and trailer a lot. I clean the trailer after use and make sure that everything is in order,” Fred says.
Valuable Lessons Learned
Through her hands-on experience, Fred has gained a wealth of knowledge about horse and cattle care. “I’ve learned a lot about understanding cattle behavior, which is crucial for cutting,” she notes. This practical training is helping her develop the skills necessary for her future career as a horse trainer. “All the training I’ve been doing here at T/K Cutting Horses will help me build my own training program.”
Fred’s hours in the saddle, working alongside the best trainers, opened her up to new and innovative training methods, transforming the way she thinks and interacts with both horses and people. This entire experience not only enhanced her career prospects, but also fostered personal growth and character development.
For Fred, hands-on training is irreplaceable. “When working with livestock, it doesn’t matter how many books or documentaries you read and watch. The only way to get better is to get the hands-on experience. The best way to learn is by actually being out there and doing it. I know for me and a lot of horse people, we go by ‘’feel’’. To develop your ‘’feel’’ you have to ride more horses, work more cattle and be around livestock more!”
Exploring Texas
One of the perks of her training has been the opportunity to travel for horse shows. “I’ve visited places like Fort Worth, Dallas, and even Oklahoma,” she says. Soon, she’ll be heading to Las Vegas for another show. These experiences not only enhance her training but also allow her to immerse herself in the local culture.
Fred has also attended events like The American Performance Horseman, which showcases the best riders and horses in the industry. During this time, Fred had the pleasure of hosting her parents for a visit, and they even enjoyed an MLB game in Arlington! While Fred is more of a hockey fan, she also found an opportunity to attend a Stanley Cup Western Conference final game. As a Canadian, she described it as “the coolest experience to attend such a once-in-a-lifetime kind of event!”
Embracing Cultural Differences
Adjusting to life in Texas has been seamless for Fred, thanks to the similarities between American and Canadian cultures. “I love the Western way of life that many Americans promote,” she shares. Her time in Texas has also given her a new perspective on Americans and their work ethic. “I’ve found them to be polite and driven, especially in the horse industry. We all share the same goal: preserving the Western way of life.”
Fred stands strongly by the notion, “There’s no better way to learn about a culture than to immerse yourself in it!”
Looking to the Future
As her training progresses, Fred is excited about what lies ahead. She plans to open her own horse training business when she returns home,” she reveals. Fred is thrilled to put the new knowledge and skills she acquired during her experience at T/K Cutting Horses to work as she embarks on her journey to open her own business.
Fred wholeheartedly recommends the CAEP program. “They truly care about your experience and success. “I 100% recommend CAEP to anyone trying to get experience because they are super easy to deal with! The communication CAEP provides is one of the best. It feels like they truly care about you and the success of the experience for everyone involved. They always answered my questions with the right answers and were super helpful. CAEP is a great way to come to a different country and learn about the industry you are interested in, but also to learn about the culture and visit some places you might have never gone to without their help!”
Fred Moreau’s story is a testament to the power of pursuing one’s passion and the transformative impact of hands-on training through cultural exchange. We can’t wait to see where her journey takes her next! For more information about CAEP programs, please visit www.caep.org.
