Celebrating the Accomplishments of Montana Kids in the FFA

Sure, there are probably some who stereotype them, suggesting they're a handful of kids in the middle of nowhere who don't even have internet yet.

It doesn't take much digging to uncover just how farfetched that notion is. And, with no agenda, no connections to the program, no fundraising event to promote, we just wanted to say, thank you, Future Farmers of America (FFA), a program that is flourishing in Montana in rural and urban areas alike.

The National FFA Organization is a career and technical student organization, based on middle and high school classes that promote and support agricultural education. The Northern Ag News Network tells us that over 1,650 members and guests recently attended Montana FFA’s 93rd Annual State Convention in Great Falls. During the four-day event, the convention agenda included hosting 22 career development events, general sessions and workshops. The winning teams earn the opportunity to compete at the National FFA Convention which will take place this fall in Indianapolis, Indiana.

MISSOULA HAS WHAT?

FFA's mission is to "make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success, through Agricultural Education."

With a 100-acre farm to help achieve those goals, Missoula FFA is one of the largest and most successful chapters in the state. Through tremendous community support, they  have been granted the opportunity to build a meat processing facility that will further  students' growth and knowledge. And how effectively did Missoula FFA members utilize those resources?

WESTERN MONTANA ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

FFA members all over Montana were recipients of awards in many categories at the convention, both individually and as team members. Let's take a look at some of those western Montana winners in Career Development Events.

Agricultural Issues

Team: Corvallis

Agricultural Technology and Mechanical Systems CDE (mechanics):

Individual:  Isaac Cantlon – Mission Valley

Team: Mission Valley (Ronan)

Forestry

Individual: Ethan Bay – Kalispell

Team: Missoula

Marketing Plan

Team: Corvallis

Meats

Individual: Shaun Billingsley – Missoula

Team: Missoula

Agriscience Fair:

Overall winners in each area:

Coleton Sherman – Mission Valley – Animal Systems 5

Lauren Weidow – Corvallis – Plant Systems 5

So there you have simply a warm fuzzy salute to some terrific, dedicated, disciplined young people in Montana. You can see a complete list of winner in each category, along with newly-elected officers and much more here.

Wear those blue jackets with pride, kids. And we have pride in you!