The National FFA Convention & Expo is one of the largest student gatherings in the United States. Students all over America come together in Indianapolis, Indiana to celebrate achievements, develop leadership skills, and explore opportunities in agriculture. The event includes competitions, workshops, awards, and inspirational speakers that reflect the spirit of the National FFA Convention.
Ms. Petersen is the agricultural teacher who went to The National FFA Convention with her students. “The National Convention allows members all across the United States to come together”. She continued,”It also allows for national competitions to be held in Indianapolis, Indiana. They had workshops, a keynote speaker. They also have the chance to attend a giant college and career fair. There’s lots of different opportunities for FFA members to see, and learn about other chapters across the nation,” shared Petersen.
The first National FFA convention was held in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1928, the same year FFA was founded. Also the convention brings an estimated $40 million in economic impact to Indianapolis each year. About 65-70,000 members, advisors, and guests attend the convention each year. PCM’s FFA chapter is led by nine officers. Including: President, Gretchen Uitermarkt, Vice President, Seriah Nolin, Secretary, Carter Dudley, Treasurer, Wayde Uitermarkt, Reporter, Tristen Valcore, and Sentinel, Kaylin Padget, with Advisors, Ms. Petersen and Mr. Warrick.
Petersen stated,”The biggest thing that our members participate in is the college and career fair that’s like, ginormous. Almost as big as our school, and it has all these different companies, and has different things you can learn about.” She continued,”There’s also lots of student workshops that teach them about how to start a business and what that looks like.”
When students leave the National Convention they leave knowing they are part of a larger agricultural community, inspired by the opportunities in agriculture and leadership, and with a greater sense of confidence.
