“FFA—I know what that means,” many fathers joke with one another at county fairs and stock shows. “It means Fathers Farm Alone.”

The joke earns laughter from all sides. Parents, especially dads, of FFA members know better than most that participation in the FFA requires a great deal of time and dedication.

But what are FFA members doing while their fathers farm alone?

Many times each year, FFA members travel to different cities or states to participate in Career Development Events. These events help members gain a deeper understanding of the many facets of agricultural life.

For example, FFA members involved in the Livestock Evaluation event learn about the quality traits demanded by today’s consumers and buyers: leaner cuts, greater muscle tone, higher yield, and faster growth rates. While their fathers may be farming alone, these members are learning about the traits and trends they will one day incorporate into their own herds.

Such traits are essential to the future of agriculture, which depends on its ability to adapt to consumer demands. As the FFA Creed states, there is promise in “better days through better ways,” and Career Development Events help students discover those better ways.

Beyond production agriculture, the Utah FFA Association trains students in areas such as agricultural sales, communication, public speaking, and parliamentary procedure. FFA is not just about competition; it is about premier leadership and personal growth. An FFA member learns to expect leadership from themselves and respect from others.

When a student boards a bus to attend an FFA conference or convention, they embark on a journey of self-discovery. Workshops, speeches, and activities are designed to promote personal growth and leadership development. Members are taught realistic goal-setting strategies, public speaking skills, job interviewing techniques, and the value of teamwork.

FFA members are encouraged to interact with one another, share ideas, and strive for success. They also learn proper business etiquette. Many members have opportunities to dine with agricultural experts or civic leaders. What teenager do you know who can confidently handle themselves in such situations? FFA members can because they are prepared by agriculturists who have always believed in the importance of professionalism and respect.

FFA is also about friendship. Members develop friendships statewide and nationwide with individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds. Some may come from traditional farming operations, while others are involved in scientific agricultural discoveries in the heart of the city. No matter their background, these friendships bring diversity, knowledge, and perspective to all FFA members.

At each conference and convention, these friendships are strengthened. As members share their passion for agricultural traditions and innovation, they form bonds that will help fortify them against the challenges facing agriculture. FFA members learn that they are not alone in their beliefs. They build a lifetime network that bears fruit for decades.

So, fathers, yes, you may have to farm alone on occasion. But the future of agriculture depends on it. Without the FFA to support career development, personal growth, and lifelong friendships, you just might find yourself farming alone in the years to come.

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*This article was originially published in Utah Farm Bureau Newspaper in 2008. As the orginial author, I am amazed just how much this narrative still rings true.

Beyond family and faith, I attribute Utah FFA as one of the greatest influence in my personal and professional development.