NEWS

By Kylie Anderson, Michigan FFA Foundation Contractor

As a new school year begins, Michigan FFA members are returning to classrooms, laboratories, greenhouses, school farms and agricultural education programs across the state.

This year, 10,612 Michigan FFA members will have access to experiences that connect classroom learning with leadership development and career exploration. Across Michigan, 140 agriculture, food and natural resources education programs and 170 educators are supporting students, from chapter activities and Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs) to competitions and conferences. Now more than ever, students across Michigan will have opportunities to develop skills that prepare them for success both in and beyond the classroom.

The year got off to a strong start with the Fall Leadership and Careers Conference earlier in October, where Michigan FFA members gathered in Lansing to build leadership skills, connect with industry professionals and explore careers in agriculture, food and natural resources.

This fall, students are also participating in Michigan FFA's Broiler Contest, one of the association's longest-running hands-on learning experiences. Through the project, members raise and manage a flock of broiler chickens while applying concepts in animal science, recordkeeping and production management. The contest gives students a firsthand look at the poultry industry while developing practical skills that can be applied both in and beyond agriculture.

"One of the highlights of every year is meeting new teachers and students across Michigan.” said Mark Forbush, Michigan FFA State Advisor. “When I see members participating in experiences like the State Broiler Contest and Fall Leadership and Careers Conference, I see the impact it can have on their future. These programs are just the beginning of a year filled with opportunities that help prepare Michigan FFA members for careers in our state's agricultural industry."

As chapters welcome new members and reconnect after summer break, another year of agricultural education is underway. Whether students are attending their first chapter meeting, preparing for a competition or managing an SAE project, Michigan FFA and donors alike continue to provide experiences that help young people explore their interests and prepare for careers beyond the classroom.