Meet Caitlin Neitzel of Eden, the 2026 Fond du Lac County Fairest of the Fair!
Caitlin is a senior at the University of Wisconsin–Platteville, where she is studying Crop and Soil Science with an emphasis in Agronomy. She plans to pursue a career in the agronomy industry, where she hopes to help farmers make informed decisions while continuing to advocate for agriculture.
Growing up on her family's farm, Caitlin developed a passion for agriculture at an early age. She became involved with the Fond du Lac County Fair as a freshman in high school when she began showing dairy cattle. What started as a new opportunity quickly became one of her favorite traditions. She has since expanded her showing experience to the Wisconsin State Fair, where she has built lasting friendships and developed an even greater appreciation for the dedication, sportsmanship, and community that make agriculture so special.
Currently, Caitlin works as a drone operator, applying crop protection products while helping farmers improve crop health. She has also gained valuable experience through agronomy internships and agricultural research, working with crop production, field trials, and precision agriculture. These experiences have strengthened her passion for the industry and prepared her for a future serving Wisconsin agriculture.
Outside of school and work, Caitlin enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, hiking, and cheering on Wiese Motorsports at racetracks across the Midwest. She is excited to spend the year sharing her passion for the Fond du Lac County Fair and inviting others to experience all that makes it a cherished tradition.
In January 2027, Caitlin will represent the Fond du Lac County Fair at the Wisconsin Association of Fairs Annual Convention, where she will compete for the title of Wisconsin Fairest of the Fairs. The four-day competition includes multiple rounds of interviews, on-stage speaking opportunities, professional development sessions, and a deep dive into Wisconsin’s fair industry.
As the 2026 Fairest of the Fair, Caitlin will serve as the official hostess of the Fond du Lac County Fair, taking place July 15–19. Throughout the year, she will make appearances at community events and share her love of the fair and agriculture. You can follow her journey on Facebook or Instagram (@fdlfairestofthefair).