The Texas Wagyu Association is pleased to introduce one of our newest members of the Board of Directors, Rob Cullen of Cullen Akaushi Cattle Company in Harwood, Texas.
Rob’s journey to the Wagyu industry began long before he ever owned his first Akaushi cow. Originally from Texas, he attended the Texas Military Institute beginning at just 12 years old. There is where he was introduced to the ranching life. Rob continued his education at Tarleton State University. Following college, Rob built a successful career as the owner of a commercial fire equipment service company in Austin, operating the business for many years before selling it in 2019.
As it turned out, Rob’s timing could not have been much better. Shortly after the sale, the world was turned upside down by the COVID-19 pandemic. With a successful business chapter behind him, Rob settled into retirement.
Ahead of retirement in 2018, Rob purchased some ranch property in Harwood Texas. After getting to know the folks over at HeartBrand Cattle, a company he had come to know after moving to the area, he decided he wanted to buy some Akaushi. He attended the annual American Akaushi Association convention in June 2019. In February 2020, Rob purchased his first six head of Akaushi cattle from Mike Mellott, a well-known Akaushi rancher, up in Hugo, Colorado. What began as a small herd quickly grew into a passion for the breed and a commitment to quality genetics.
Rob credits Jacob Tipp, Fullblood Cattle Manager at HeartBrand Cattle, and Dr. Aaron Cooper, a leading expert in Akaushi genetics, as invaluable mentors. He says both have always been willing to answer questions, share their knowledge, and help fellow ranchers succeed in the Akaushi business.
Today, Cullen Akaushi Cattle company consists of approximately 55 head, with a particular focus on polled Akaushi cattle. More than half of the herd carries the polled trait, reflecting Rob’s vision of producing practical, high-quality cattle that meet the needs of modern cattle producers.
These days, Rob enjoys life on the ranch, a welcome change of pace from the hustle and bustle of Austin business life. Whether managing cattle, improving genetics, or serving the Texas Wagyu Association as a director, he brings a thoughtful and steady approach to everything he does.
We are grateful to have Rob’s experience, leadership, and passion for the breed represented on the TWA Board of Directors and look forward to his continued contributions to the association and the American Wagyu industry.