When Ron “Ronnie B” Betts retired from the Air Force after 27 years, 6 months, and 6 days (but who’s counting?), he didn’t expect that his next mission would be in the equine industry. Yet, years later, he is building a state-of-the-art equine business and event center, applying the knowledge he’s gained from the MBA in Equine Entrepreneurship program at St. Andrews University. His story is one of passion, persistence, and the power of education in turning a vision into reality.
From the Air Force to the Equine Industry
Ron grew up on a farm in Indiana, raising cattle and hogs, with the occasional horse around. However, it wasn’t until 2016, when his daughter asked for a horse, that he truly caught the equine bug. He jokingly told her that he’d only consider it if she found a mule—and soon enough, Ruth the Mule arrived.
That was just the beginning. In 2017, an Air Force friend gifted him a Persian Cross horse named Bella, sparking a deeper interest in equine care and management. He began taking online courses in equine nutrition and pasture management through Rutgers Equine Extension and soon found himself on a quest for an equine-focused education.
Finding the right academic path wasn’t easy. Bachelor’s programs didn’t offer the depth he wanted, and PhD programs were too specialized. But when St Andrews University launched its MBA in Equine Entrepreneurship, it was just right.
Why an MBA in Equine Entrepreneurship?
Ron knew he needed a strong foundation in business to make his dream a reality. “I didn’t have any deep business knowledge, especially in the equine industry,” he admits. The St Andrews program provided exactly what he needed—a business education tailored to the equine world, covering everything from financial management to legal considerations.
Now enrolled part-time while maintaining a full-time job, Ron is methodically applying his coursework to his Equine Event Center. He carefully evaluates each lesson with his ultimate business goal in mind, ensuring that his education directly impacts his entrepreneurial journey.
Creating a One-of-a-Kind Equine Business
With the support of Saint Andrews’ MBA program, Ron has refined his business plan to focus on four core value streams:
- Family Celebration Venue – A unique venue for weddings and events, providing a rustic yet elegant equine atmosphere.
- Horse Hoteling – A high-quality boarding facility catering to equestrians traveling with their horses.
- Equine Leadership Program – A professional development program that uses equine-assisted training to enhance leadership skills.
- Equine Therapy Partnership – A collaboration with local therapy programs to offer equine-assisted therapy for those in need.
Each element of his business is designed to maximize impact while ensuring long-term financial sustainability—a principle his St Andrews coursework reinforced.
Building the Dream Barn: A Vision of Excellence
Ron’s barn project started as a simple pole barn but quickly transformed into something much more ambitious. Inspired by years of research on barn design, he carefully curated ideas from Pinterest, Facebook groups, and personal experience, collecting elements that added to the Wow Factor.
- Grand Entrance: A covered porch and outdoor foyer for a welcoming first impression.
- Spacious Center Aisle: At 16 feet wide, the aisle accommodates everything from horse cross-tying to elegant event setups.
- Multipurpose Rooms: These include a 24×26 event space and a 12×24 kitchen and bathroom area for added convenience.
- Luxury Touches: Paver flooring for durability and elegance, a chandelier-adorned interior, and an 80×120 riding arena with a stretch goal of adding a cover.
Standout Features of the Barn
Rather than rushing the project or taking on debt, Ron is building his barn in phases, ensuring each detail aligns with his vision and business goals.
How St Andrews’ MBA Program is Helping Ron Succeed
St Andrews’ MBA program has been a game-changer in helping Ron bring his vision to life. The finance courses have given him clarity on how many events he needs to host annually to turn a profit. Meanwhile, the legal and ethics course with Professor Katie Schaaf helped him navigate liability concerns and pushed him to network with local equine professionals—connections that are now invaluable to his business.
Ron credits Dr. Freeman with making the MBA in Equine Entrepreneurship possible. “An MBA dedicated to equine business is difficult to find,” he explains. “Other MBA programs say ‘equine,’ but only in the title.”
Lessons for Future Equine Entrepreneurs
For those considering entering the equine industry, Ron has this advice:
- Find your true passion. The equine world is vast—whether it’s event hosting, rodeo horses, or therapy programs, discover what excites you most.
- Take your time to plan. Rushing into business without a solid plan is a mistake. “Plan, then plan some more, and once you’re at the 80% solution, go for it.”
- Don’t fear failure—fear success. Growth brings new challenges. Be prepared for them.
The Future of Ron’s Business & the MBA Program
In the next five years, Ron envisions a thriving venue where he’s turning customers away due to high demand. His Equine Leadership Program will certify professionals and his Equine Therapy partnership will make a meaningful impact in the community.
For those thinking about an MBA in Equine Entrepreneurship, Ron offers one last piece of advice:
“Before you apply, know what you want to get out of the program. Have a clear vision. This MBA isn’t just about horses—it’s about learning how to run a sustainable, successful business.”
Ready to Build Your Own Equine Business?
If Ron’s journey has inspired you, the St Andrews University MBA in Equine Entrepreneurship might be the perfect next step for you. Whether you’re looking to start an equine business, manage an existing operation, or elevate your knowledge of the industry, this program offers the tools, connections, and support to help you succeed.
Start your journey today. Learn more about the MBA in Equine Entrepreneurship at St Andrews University!
Toni Forrest at 910.550.3558 or [email protected].
