“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.”– MLK
We firmly believe that education is not just meant to teach information that can be regurgitated, but to teach one how to use their mind for critical thinking, problem solving, to build confidence in your knowledge and skill set; to self educate.
This basic program is set up and taught by two horsemen-with both formal and in-the-field educations-who have, without a doubt, made a lot of mistakes. Failed. Failed again, dusted off and continue to go on, build and learn.
You get out of this opportunity what you put into it.
This is an investment in you, your horse, your horsemanship, and in the future of our industry.
Our operation is quaint and typically low-key... Typically.
Our passion is horses and teaching. We are OBSESSED with horses and horsemanship.
We start colts, are learning how to cow horse, ride Reiners, Dressage, and we frequently train Liberty horses, but we work with horses of numerous background, disciplines and breeds and we LOVE it!
This is a set of basic, short-term courses for those looking for their place in the industry, looking for more knowledge, a blend of the science and formal education, with the hands on experience of living it.
Elliot Holtzman
Elliot was raised with a strong work ethic and to be a survivor.
Literally.
Elliot grew up learning and teaching primitive survival skills as a camp counselor. As soon as he could drive he began building wood and pipe fence, tree houses and structures for both farms and residences in town.
He is also mechanically inclined from getting non-running classic cars running to building off-road vehicles from parts.
Elliot grew up riding horses at the summer camp where he taught survival skills.
In 2014 he became a recipient of the Legacy of Legends Horsemanship Scholarship and that opened the door for him to learn the skills to successfully start colts for a future career.
From there, Elliot has completed multiple internships under various horsemen and has become an accomplished horseman in the show pen.
From Versatility Ranch Horse to Jumpers and a bit of Dressage; he has also performed in the International Liberty Horse Association, NRHA Freestyle Reining, and competes in NRCHA Derbies and the Snaffle Bit Futurity. He also performs alongside Caitie with their teams of Liberty horses.
Elliot takes on any opportunity that he can to continue to learn and become a better horseman-in fact he is signed up to compete in the 2024 Gaucho Derby.
He's truly learned most of what he knows from making mistakes and has used his in-field education to help build Versatile Horsemanship as a trainer, a handy man, a craftsman, and a businessman.
Caitie Holtzman
Caitie grew up passionate about horses and knowing she wanted to be a professional within the horse industry, but was unsure of how to do so.
In true fashion of learning the hard way, Caitie packed up and moved to Texas the day after high graduation to pursue a career in the horse industry.
Too shy, scared, and unaware she worked odd jobs for 2 years until she found out about a community college in the area that had an Equine program.
Caitie enrolled in Equine classes and completed the Associates Degree program. She met numerous Horsemen through the program and was able to use those connections, and the confidence that she gained, to learn to become a Horseman herself-one that could add value to the industry.
Caitie continued her in-field education through Horsemanship and Equine Reproduction internships while continuing for formal education at another University, earning her a Bachelors Degree and Masters Degree in Equine Science and Agriculture Education.
Along with operating Versatile Horsemanship, Caitie also taught in Equine programs at a community college as well as at a university from 2015-2021.
Caitie has found success in the Liberty Horse discipline showcasing Freestyle performances in the ILHA and in NRHA Freestyle Reining, as well as performing entertainment acts and demonstrations. She has also competed in Versatility Ranch Horse and has her sights set on Reined Cow Horse.
Why?
To begin to find your place in this industry.
Make connections and contacts.
Find confidence and success.
Lay the foundation of your future.
Time and willingness to learn go a long way!
This program is meant to help you learn horsemanship. To offer you TRUE, INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE.
Why? So that you can be hired.
Hired by other horsemen. Hired by future clients.
-Basic Horsemanship, includes all aspects
- Tools and tack
- Nutrition and care
- Reading a horse
- And more
-Farm and Ranch Skills
-Learn how to become tough to replace, to set yourself apart
Learn by doing. Gain priceless experiences. Almost completely hands on program.
Scratch the surface of presenting yourself professionally and the foundation of what it looks like to start a business in the horse industry.
Belong to something and take pride in your craft.
Horsemanship is a craft, it is an art, it is something that would be hard pressed to be replaced by a computer.
Who?
You.
Anyone wanting to be apart of the horse industry through direct involvement or indirectly.
An owner wanting to learn more.
A student looking to obtain an internship or employment.
The art of horsemanship, timing, and feel is a fading art. The industry has become so specialized it has allowed for good, basic, essential horsemanship to sometimes slip through the cracks. Horsemanship is a NECESSITY for the future of the survival of our industry. Let us help you discover horsemanship, and if you work at it, you will learn the art of Horsemanship.