Seventy-two FFA members from 23 states recently traveled to Kansas City for a closer look at careers in animal agriculture. The National FFA Organization’s third Next Gen Conference of the year was held September 15th through the 19th. High school sophomores, juniors and seniors participated in career sessions, industry roundtables, hands-on activities and facility tours.

Students visited a Smithfield Foods hog production operation, Cargill pet food and feed manufacturing facilities, and the American Royal. They also worked directly with representatives from companies including Cargill and Merck Animal Health. National FFA says the program is designed to help students see the wide range of career opportunities available throughout agriculture while giving them direct contact with industry professionals. The 72 students were selected from a competitive national applicant pool.

By: NATHAN STUEDLESeventy-two FFA members from 23 states recently traveled to Kansas City for a closer look at careers in animal agriculture. The National FFA Organization’s third Next Gen Conference of the year was held September 15th through the 19th. High school sophomores, juniors and seniors participated in career sessions, industry roundtables, hands-on activities and facility tours.Students visited a Smithfield Foods hog production operation, Cargill pet food and feed manufacturing facilities, and the American Royal. They also worked directly with representatives from companies including Cargill and Merck Animal Health. National FFA says the program is designed to help students see the wide range of career opportunities available throughout agriculture while giving them direct contact with industry professionals. The 72 students were selected from a competitive national applicant pool.

FFA conference spotlights animal agriculture careers