Written by Claire Binkowski
This story originally appeared in the January 2026 issue of Premier.
Often the first in the barn and the last to leave, assistant trainers are the steady heartbeat of the horse industry. They carry the weight of long hours, quiet sacrifices, and an unwavering commitment to the horses and programs they help shape. More than a supporting role, they are the future, carrying on tradition while redefining what excellence looks like for the next generation. This series focuses on the assistant trainers who keep the industry moving forward. Because while the spotlight may not always find them, their dedication doesn’t just support the sport—it shapes what it becomes.
Growing up in New Jersey, Devon Meshach doesn’t remember a time when horses weren’t part of her life. From her earliest days in the barn, they became a constant presence—one that shaped her sense of purpose and belonging. Her journey began with a mini pony, followed by hunter ponies and eventually Quarter Horses, each step quietly shaping her confidence, work ethic, and deep love for the sport. Her first experiences in competition came through Pony Club and 4-H, but for Devon, it was never just about the ribbons.
“I was always the kid at the barn that never wanted to leave,” she laughs. “When my parents came to pick me up, I would still be out running around with my pony.”
As the years passed, that passion only grew stronger. There was never a single moment when Devon decided she wanted to become a horse trainer—it was simply where her heart had always led her. “I just always wanted to ride,” she says. “Being around horses has always felt like where I belong. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.”
Her first job in the industry was working for Danny Desmond. Along with teaching her the fundamentals, Danny instilled one of the most important lessons of her career: tomorrow is always a new day.
“Danny taught me that horses feel everything we do,” Devon shares. “Sometimes progress means giving both yourself and the horse the grace to reset.”
Photo © Premier Sires
At the 2022 All American Quarter Horse Congress, Danny connected Devon with Katy Jo and Tim Zuidema, who were searching for a new assistant trainer. Not long after, Devon packed her bags and headed south—a decision that would prove pivotal, shaping not only her career but the horsewoman she continues to become.
“It’s hard to put into words what working for Katy Jo and Tim has meant to me,” Devon says. “They’ve pushed me to grow, to think differently, and to trust the process. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their influence.”
Photo © Premier Sires
Over the past three years, working alongside Katy Jo and Tim has become a defining chapter in Devon’s journey. She’s been challenged, encouraged, and given opportunities that shaped her growth as a professional in lasting ways. The lessons she returns to most often are simple yet powerful: “If I can’t figure out what you’re doing, how will the horse?” and “Go have fun and good luck.” Even in high-pressure moments, she’s learned that joy still plays an essential role—for both horse and rider.
“Katy Jo has taught me that in order to make a living in this industry, you have to remember why you started,” Devon shares. “There are a lot of highs and lows, but if you truly love what you do and don’t lose sight of that, it makes all the difference.”
Life as an assistant trainer isn’t easy. The long days, early mornings, time away from home, and physical demands require dedication and resilience. It isn’t a nine-to-five job—it’s a lifestyle. While Devon was prepared for the hard work, one of the biggest surprises was just how people-centered the industry truly is.
“Working with people is just as much a part of the job as working with horses,” she explains. “From clients and trainers to friends you see year after year at the shows, those relationships matter just as much as the horses themselves.”
When it comes to horses there are a few that will always hold a special place in her heart—Good Rides Dream Girl, the first horse she showed at Congress, along with American Machine, Im Batgirl, and The Drinkz R On Me. Each helped shape her journey and taught her something unique along the way. “Every horse teaches you something,” Devon says. “Learning how to read them and truly connect with them—that’s the most meaningful part.”
While the job isn’t always easy, the reward comes in watching horses grow, mature, and succeed, knowing you played a role in their journey. Some of Devon’s proudest accomplishments include earning third place in the Level 2 Junior Western Pleasure and teaming up with Katy Jo to co-pilot My Blazing Version to win the Open Versatility at the 2024 All American Quarter Horse Congress—milestones made even more meaningful by the people who have supported her along the way.
“My family has always believed in me,” she says. “Their support, along with the mentors and friends I’ve met in this industry, means everything to me.”
Another standout moment in Devon’s career came last year at the APHA World Championship Show, where she won the 3-Year-Old Intermediate Open Western Pleasure and placed second behind Katy Jo in the 3-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure.
