Over 70,000 students gather for 97th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis

More than 70,000 students from across the nation filled the Indiana Convention Center for the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo.

The National FFA Organization is a youth leadership and development group for students interested in the agriculture industry.

FFA Communications Manager Kristy Meyer said the goal of the convention is to cultivate a successful environment for the industry’s future leaders.

“It’s just a wonderful opportunity for the students to learn and really explore,” Meyer said. “But more than that, I think it's a great opportunity for Indianapolis to be showcased to all of these students.”

During the convention, attendees have the opportunity to participate in competitions, explore careers in the industry and meet other members from across the country.

Gold letters lined the back of Bob Trujillo’s navy blue jacket and spelled out 'New Mexico.' He said he drove 22 hours with his local New Mexico FFA chapter to attend this year’s convention.

As a four year member of FFA, Trujillo said some people associate the organization with farming, but he knows it's more than that.

“There's a bunch of things between science and ag, machinery and technology,” he said. “There's a lot of industries that come into play with the FFA Organization.”

Attendees could explore more than 350 careers related to agriculture, from wildlife management to bioengineering, during the convention. Meyer said members get to research the pros-and-cons of major agricultural issues, including climate change and water related issues.

“Stuff like that [is] happening in West Lafayette with the water issue, it's interesting because you never know when some of our students might research that and then just kind of debate it,” she said.

FFA delegates could also speak with over 65 universities about their programs, all while networking with other members.

Billy Hillebrand, a three-year member who is also from New Mexico, enjoyed building connections with others and learning about their background.

“I love meeting new people,” he said. “It's really fun here because it's just lots of good people from all over the country you get to meet.”

FFA members were challenged to get the signatures of attendees from every state and U.S. territory at the convention.

Nicole Cox is an FFA member from Pennsylvania. She drove 12 hours with her school to attend the event.

She said she’s grateful for the many opportunities and experiences she’s had because of FFA, but wished the national organization was more diverse.

“I think the FFA needs to open up their minds a little bit,” Cox said. “It's about to be 2025. They need to be more inclusive.”

A part of the organization's current three-year strategic plan is to expand “equitable opportunities for all students to develop their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through FFA experiences and opportunities.”

This convention has been held annually in Indianapolis since 2016, and before that Indianapolis hosted the event from 2006 to 2012. It is scheduled to remain in the city through 2033.

Four-year member Ava Higginbotham from Tipton, Indiana encourages students to get involved.

“I think everyone should get involved with FFA,” Higginbotham said. “It’s a really great experience. Lot’s of opportunities, things to grow in and you learn a lot.”

Contact WFYI Morning Edition newscaster and reporter Abriana Herron at aherron@wfyi.org.