Chet Johnson ’01 – 2026 Distinguished Alum

Having just won the Wyoming State High School Saddle Bronc Riding Championship as a senior, Chet Johnson had his pick of colleges. However, “Coming to Sheridan College was a no-brainer for me. When I toured the campus, it just felt like home. I had buddies on the rodeo team and the Agriculture Program was outstanding.”

Chet did not realize how life-changing the whole experience would be for him. “I had great instructors. They were down to earth, accommodating and made learning fun. Even the difficult classes! I grew a lot as a person and made life-long friends.”

While at Sheridan College, Chet competed in saddle bronc riding for the rodeo team, earning a trip to the College National Finals Rodeo in 2001. After graduating with a degree in Agriculture Science from Sheridan College in 2001, Chet would go on to a long, successful career as a professional rodeo cowboy in the US and Canada with career earnings to date of over $870,000.

Chet is very determined to give back to the sport he loves. He has served on the PRCA Board of Directors and is currently serving on the NFR Committee. As time permits, he helps coach and mentor young rodeo athletes, including the Sheridan College Rodeo team. He has also been very involved in developing a premier rodeo event in Johnson County to help give contestants opportunities to compete and hone their talents.

Chet speaks very highly of Sheridan College. “I have had several cousins and my nephew come here. Hopefully my niece will as well! You can’t find a better place to nurture you and help you transition to the next stage of your life. They really help you grow and become a better person. Sheridan College really is second to none!”

When Chet was told he had been chosen as the 2026 Distinguished Alum award, he said, “This is such a great honor that Sheridan College has given me. I would not be here without everyone that has had a part in building my life. The education and expanded worldview I received at Sheridan College put me on a path to success and has given me a platform to help the next generation of rodeo athletes. I am very thankful for the “village” that helped me become who I am!”