This week is National FFA Week and we want to take a moment to recognize students in FFA and all who advise those groups. FFA has been around since 1928 and is currently available in 98 counties in North Carolina. Agriculture is our state’s number one industry and we want young people to see it as a viable career path.
Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler sits down each week with Southern Farm Network’s Mike Davis to discuss “Today’s Topic.”
Summary of talking points:
- This week is National FFA Week and I am pleased to recognize the hard work and dedication of students and teachers involved with this program across North Carolina.
- Agriculture is our state’s number one industry and I want young people to see it as a viable career path for their future.
- FFA started in 1928 with the mission to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for leadership and career success in the agriculture industry.
- Today, the FFA has an active presence in 98 counties of our state, totaling 335 chapters in middle and high schools.
- In fact, there are over 67,000 students in schools across our state enrolled in agriculture courses, with 21,000 of those students being active in the FFA last year.
- Each year these students take on a variety of ag-related projects, including SAE projects, or Supervised Agricultural Experiences.
- SAE projects give students a way to utilize the skills they learn in the classroom out in the field. In 2020, students invested one million hours on these projects, including leadership and community service activities.
- I am proud to be an honorary member of the FFA, where I get to stand by and support our future industry leaders.
- We need bright, young people to carry on the legacy of agriculture in this state for years to come and that’s why I am so thankful that the FFA is still alive, active and growing.
- In fact, we have an entire day dedicated to the FFA each year at the N.C. State Fair as well as host an event for members, usually the Monday before opening day. Both events not only seek to connect members and give them something to look forward to but make them feel valued within our industry.
- The FFA also operates a booth throughout the duration of the fair each year, hosts the Children’s Barnyard, assists with the Field of Dreams, and members compete as exhibitors with gardens, projects and livestock. FFA members are at all of these events where you can stop by and learn more about the program and how to get involved.
- If you were active in FFA and still want to be a part of the fun each year, there is an alumni membership available where you can help support the FFA through fundraisers and their chapter grant program. You can also check with your local agriculture teachers to see if there are other opportunities to connect.
- Additionally, we will be promoting the stories of our six state FFA officers on the NCDA&CS social media outlets this week. Follow along to learn their stories and why FFA is important to them.
- Our state’s agriculture industry has a bright future in the hands of these passionate and hard-working students. Join us this week in thanking these students, as well as those who lead and advise them, for their dedication to the industry. We wish each of you the best of luck in your future careers!