Nebraska Technical Agriculture College Honors Student Veterans on Veterans Day
Curtis, Neb — As Veterans Day approaches, three Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture students are being recognized for bringing military leadership, discipline, and a commitment to service into their education and future careers.
Recognizing Wyatt Ozenbaugh, Morgan Ekhoff, and Tonya Craghead
The Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis is highlighting the service of Wyatt Ozenbaugh, Morgan Ekhoff, and Tonya Craghead, noting the sacrifices military service can require, including time away from family and the dedication of being ready to serve when called.
Wyatt Ozenbaugh, a sergeant in the Nebraska Army National Guard’s 1075th Transportation Company and an 88M heavy equipment operator, is studying agronomy and agribusiness at NCTA, along with an ag chemical applications certificate. He plans to graduate in December 2026.
Ozenbaugh said his military experience has helped him listen more attentively, respect others, and take purposeful steps toward his goals. He chose NCTA for its small campus, instructor-student relationships, and hands-on learning opportunities.
“This college is one-of-a-kind in my view, and it has been an amazing experience here,” Ozenbaugh said.
He believes Veterans Day is a time to reflect on the opportunities Americans have and those who helped preserve them.
“To me, it’s about thinking how good we actually have it from those before us and those still serving,” he said.
Morgan Ekhoff’s Service and Future
Morgan Ekhoff, a veterinary technology student, served in the Nebraska Army National Guard from March 2020 through March 2026 as a 68W combat medical specialist. She is now in the Individual Ready Reserve.
Ekhoff’s service strengthened her discipline, accountability, teamwork, and ability to remain calm under pressure. She plans to continue her education and eventually attend veterinary school, with a particular interest in large animal and equine care.
“As a medic, I learned the value of being there for people during some of their most difficult moments,” Ekhoff said.
She also emphasized the role of military families.
“Behind every service member are family members who make sacrifices and provide support throughout training, deployments, and other military commitments,” she said.
Tonya Craghead’s Transition to NCTA
Tonya Craghead, a student in NCTA’s online veterinary technology program, served in the U.S. Air Force for six years as a maintenance liaison for KC-135 aircraft. She separated from the military in 2020.
Craghead came to NCTA after hearing positive things about the college from people who taught at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. She said her interest in animal care led her to veterinary technology.
“I wanted to do something I genuinely enjoy and could see myself doing in the future,” Craghead said.
Her military experience taught her hard work, discipline, and how to adapt to unfamiliar situations.
“One thing I took away from my time serving was learning how to adapt to different situations and environments,” Craghead said.