FFA members at the National Convention. Photo Submitted by Sydni Carmichael.
FFA, or Future Farmers of America, is a national organization that focuses on agricultural education and leadership. The program was created in 1928 by a group of young farmers. They wanted to teach future generations and prepare them for the challenges of feeding a growing population. The government adopted it as an official program in 1988. As the 5th largest state association, North Carolina has 364 chapters.
FFA is an environment where students can develop leadership skills and grow as people.
“It's an amazing organization, filled with many amazing people,” said Sydni Carmichael, a senior and the secretary of the FFA at Watauga High School. “There are a lot of opportunities for growth. I have developed better leadership qualities and growth in many areas.”
Even though FFA is an organization aimed towards those who are interested in agriculture, not everyone has had experience on farms or comes from an agricultural background.
“My family—we haven’t raised anything in agriculture. We have a garden every single year, but I get my agriculture from my boss: We have an angus farm,” said Lilly Farley, a senior and President of the FFA.
Haylee Bare, the advisor of FFA at Watauga, wants students to understand that FFA members don’t fit into a “box.”
“In general, there is a stigma that it is just for rednecks and farmers, typical people who you would imagine,” said Bare. “But the reality of it is that agriculture is one of the most important industries because it allows you to feed and clothe the entire population of Boone. There are careers for everybody, not just people who are doing farming.”
The FFA is a good place to learn more about future careers in agriculture, and some have been inspired to pursue said careers.
“It’s an opportunity to just explore all the agricultural careers,” said Farley. “I have been able to see the education opportunities for me, and Mrs. Bare has inspired me to become an agriculture teacher as well.”
The FFA competes in various competitions, including livestock judging and floraculture. Last school year, they went to the regional competition for floraculture and did well enough to qualify for the state competition. They didn’t win at state, but they still got to go to the national convention in Indianapolis, Indiana. There, they participated in activities with members from all 50 states. They hope to participate in other competitions, including livestock judging and gator wars, this year.
Along with participating in more competitions, the club advisor hopes to add more opportunities to be in contact with animals and get hands-on experience.
“I have a lot of plans, mainly expanding the program size,” said Bare. “Going to lots of different competitions and conferences, taking trips all the time. And then expanding the facilities that we have here with animals, more gardening, all that type of stuff.”
FFA is a great route to leadership experiences, but it is a great place to find new friends and chosen family.
“I knew that it was a good way to make friends and have a family bond,” Farley said.
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