Michael Benner

Region: West Central

Owning and Operating a training ranch in Chatham County. Even though horses didn’t become a part of Michael’s life until his mid 20’s, he wasted no time finding professionals to learn the best and newest methods. During his journey, he found inspiration from local, national, and international mentors. He had the opportunity to spend several years learning from Dennis Reis traveling across the U.S. developing a keen eye for problem-solving, confidence building, and building a solid foundation. He took the lessons learned over 20 years and integrated these into his unique approach to working with both the equestrian and equine as the owner of Collective Horsemanship. His laid-back quiet approach to life, work, and animals forms the pathway to success. He is very active in the horse community as a member of the Back Country Horsemen of Uwharrie, where he served as the president for 2 years, offered expertise in project coordination, trail development, maintenance, and best business practices.
With a formal education in Computer Engineering and working with the Federal government sector for nearly 30 years, Michael brings a plethora of knowledge to N.C. Horse Council within best business practices, emergency preparedness and management, technology resources, process development, corporate integration, and working within the hurdles of the federal government.

Michael’s view of what is at the core of a horseman: “A horseman’s role is to be the true steward of the horse. From the mind that moves the body to the feet that touch the ground. We are their voice in a voiceless world.”