This is National FFA Week, and chapters across the country are hosting teacher appreciation breakfasts, conducting “Ag Olympics” competitions, speaking to the public about agriculture and much more. The week of George Washington’s birthday was designated as National FFA Week in 1947 at a National FFA Board of Directors meeting. FFA Week always runs from Saturday to Saturday, and encompasses February 22, Washington’s birthday.In the spirit of the week, remind FFA members you know about a great opportunity for young, prospective agriculturalists.
The New Century Farmer Conference, sponsored by Case IH and in cooperation with the National FFA Foundation, is a five-day, intensive instructional program designed to help students advance their careers in production agriculture. The program will allow students to:
• Discover how producers can profit from value-added products and technology
• Explore new farm business opportunities and develop business alliances with other producers
• Study behavioral changes that enable young producers to overcome common challenges they will face
• Discuss topics including: farm succession, sustainable ag, new and emerging farm machinery, international trade and ag marketing
• Establish a network with a select group of business professionals excited about pursuing a career in production agriculture
• Gain an understanding of how banks view your operation
• Grow personally and professionally and create a vision statement for your operation
Participants will develop their entrepreneurial leadership skills, practical knowledge, global perspective and personal growth.To be eligible for this all-expense-paid educational conference on July 14-20, 2013, in Des Moines, Iowa, candidates must be in or have recently graduated from college and plan to return to the farm.
Applications are due on Friday, March 15, 2013, by 5 p.m. EST. Encourage someone you know to consider this opportunity and help prepare the next generation of farmers and agriculture leaders.