The National FFA Organization continues to prove that agricultural education is not just about farming — it’s about building leaders for every industry.
In a recent Ag Meter interview, Kristy Meyer, Director of Marketing and Communications for the National FFA Organization, shared how FFA has grown to more than one million members nationwide, with over 9,000 chapters across all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Membership continues to climb, reflecting a renewed interest among young people in agriculture, innovation, and service.
And the impact? Life-changing.
A Personal Journey Into FFA
Meyer joined the organization more than 23 years ago after applying for a communications position — despite knowing little about FFA at the time. Ironically, she later discovered her own father had been an FFA member in the 1960s and had kept his pins for decades. Like so many alumni, the experience meant more to him than he ever expressed.
That same story echoes today. According to Meyer, nearly every FFA member can point to a teacher or advisor who transformed their confidence, leadership skills, and life direction.
Agriculture Is Everywhere
One of the most powerful reminders from the interview is that agriculture touches every aspect of daily life.
“It’s not just the food on your table,” Meyer explained. “It’s the clothes you wear, the fuel you put in your car — everything is touched by agriculture.”
FFA helps students understand that broad reach. With more than 300 career pathways in agriculture, students explore everything from plant and animal science to ag technology, food safety, engineering, biotechnology, and AI-driven innovation. Many students graduate high school with industry certifications or hands-on experience that gives them a competitive advantage entering college or the workforce.
Importantly, students do not need to grow up on a farm to join. Membership simply requires enrollment in an agricultural education class. From urban chapters to rural programs, FFA is accessible to anyone with an interest in learning and leading.
National FFA Week: Nearly 80 Years Strong
First designated in 1948, National FFA Week was intentionally chosen to include February 22 — the birthday of George Washington, a farmer and agriculturist. Nearly eight decades later, chapters across the country still celebrate with service projects, pancake breakfasts, “Drive Your Tractor to School” days, and community outreach.
The week highlights key themes such as:
- Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs)
- Service and community engagement
- Alumni recognition
- Advisor Appreciation Day
- Giving back to support FFA programs
- Wearing the iconic blue jacket with pride
It’s a celebration not only of agriculture, but of leadership and service.
Living to Serve
Photos FFA DDOS at the STEM Connection farm at 8407 Moore Rd. Indianapolis, IN October. 21,2024. ( Alan Petersime)
Perhaps the most inspiring aspect of FFA is its commitment to community. Members regularly volunteer at food pantries, build community gardens, support humane societies, and mentor younger students. The organization’s motto — Living to Serve — is visible in action every day.
FFA members consistently demonstrate strong communication skills, critical thinking, and professionalism. Many employers recognize the blue jacket on a résumé as a sign of leadership readiness. Whether students remain in agriculture or pursue other industries, the soft skills developed through FFA stay with them for life.
How to Get Involved
Parents interested in FFA should check with their local school about agricultural education programs. If a chapter doesn’t exist, schools can work toward establishing one by developing ag education coursework.
Adults who want to support a local chapter can volunteer time, mentor students, or contribute to fundraising efforts. Nationally, supporters can follow @nationalffa on social media, visit ffa.org, and participate during National FFA Week.
This interview only scratches the surface of what FFA is accomplishing nationwide. From technology and innovation to service and leadership, FFA is building the next generation of difference-makers. To hear the full conversation with Kristy Meyer and learn how you can support FFA in your community, be sure to listen to the complete Ag Meter interview.