By Blake Jackson
More than 300 FFA members, advisors, and guests from across Wisconsin gathered in Rothschild on Feb. 11 for the Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s annual FFA Farm Forum, a one-day event focused on leadership development and career exploration in agriculture.
"FFA Farm Forum is a place for learning and leadership," said WFBF President Brad Olson. "We appreciate FFA members' vision for the future of agriculture and are proud to present an event that supports their leadership paths."
The keynote address was delivered by Mark Holley, chief meteorologist at WSAW. Holley spoke about how his interest in science, technology, and problem-solving evolved into a career with direct relevance to agriculture and daily decision-making for farmers.
“I became a meteorologist to communicate with the people who need to know when to bale their hay and plant their crops,” shared Holley. “In my career, it is important to be a good science communicator because the weather impacts everyone.”
Throughout the forum, FFA members participated in interactive, career-focused workshops led by professionals from across the agricultural sector. Sessions covered a wide range of topics, including finance, agricultural engineering, food science, marketing, insurance, cooperatives, and animal behavior.
Presenters represented organizations such as Compeer Financial, MSA Professional Services, UW-River Falls, Rural Mutual Insurance Company, Insight FS, and UW-Madison Extension.
"FFA Farm Forum is a valuable collaboration between Wisconsin Farm Bureau and Wisconsin FFA, fostering leadership development and career exploration in agriculture," said WFBF Director of Young Leader Programs Melissa Jacobson. "We’re proud to support and inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders."
Photo Credit: wisconsin-ffa
Categories: Wisconsin, Business, Government & Policy