Impact Story

Tennessee FFA Provides Future Dairy Leaders with Hands-on Training and Big Opportunities

With an older student demographic in mind, the Tennessee FFA Foundation received grant funding in August 2023 to support its Dairy Cattle Evaluation and Management Career Development Event. The program’s goal was to provide hands-on experience to students enrolled in agricultural education interested in dairy cattle to prepare them for industry positions, manage a modern dairy herd and be ambassadors in their communities for the dairy industry.

Youth participating in this contest developed skills in observation, analysis, communication and team collaboration. This contest was open to any Tennessee FFA member aged 12 to 21. Participation in the contest increased from 44 FFA members in 2022 to 162 members in 2023 and grew even further in 2024.

Members spent many hours preparing for the contest, learning about dairy characteristics, evaluating dairy cattle type and production records, and understanding effective, sustainable dairy herd management.

“[....] FFA members are the future producers and consumers of our nation,” says Marisa Hughes, director of development for the Tennessee FFA Foundation. “Contests such as the Dairy Cattle Evaluation and Management Career Development Event are unparalleled investments in the next generation. This contest builds their skills, grows trust and strengthens the dairy community. Students are recognized for the contributions they are making to the dairy industry by educating themselves and their communities.”