Missouri FFA Members Prepare for Careers in Animal Systems Pathways

This spring, 73 FFA members from across the country traveled to Denver, Colo., to explore careers in the animal systems industry. It's part of the Next Gen Conference offered by the National FFA Organization.

The Next Gen Conference, which began in 2020, focuses on specific pathways — from animal systems to biotechnology systems. Members access new ideas, trends and opportunities that connect them directly with industry leaders. The conference is designed specifically to give FFA members hands-on, industry-relevant experience.

"We heard from our members that they wanted more opportunities to explore careers in agriculture. It was one of the reasons the Next Gen Conferences were developed. It allows members to explore their future careers," said Celya Glowacki, the advocacy, literacy and ag-based experiences manager with the National FFA Organization. "This spring's conference will help us cultivate future leaders in the animal systems pathway through a week of experiential learning, relevant education and networking."

Members explored diverse animal operations around Denver and learned how to plan for their future careers. In addition, they learned about marketing, new technologies and unique opportunities in animal systems.

Missouri members attending the #FFANextGen conference include Allie Eifert of the Jackson FFA Chapter, Karlie Ellis of the Silex FFA Chapter, Dylan Hoyt of the Audrain County R-VI FFA Chapter, Meah McCoy of the Archie FFA Chapter, Taylor Myers of the Jackson FFA Chapter, Paisley Nelson of the North Platte FFA Chapter, Gavin Rhode of the East Buchanan FFA Chapter, Kate Robnett of the Audrain County R-VI FFA Chapter, Cheyenne Silvers of the Northland Career Center FFA Chapter, Shea Stille of the Montgomery Co. R-II FFA Chapter and Elena Wirths of the Boonville FFA Chapter.

The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 850,000 student members as part of 8,995 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.