Wisconsin Farm Bureau Hosts FFA Farm Forum

[Link]More than 300 FFA members, advisors and guests from across Wisconsin attended Wisconsin Farm Bureau's FFA Farm Forum in Rothschild on Feb. 11. 

"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 speaker was Mark Holley, Chief Meteorologist at WSAW. Holley shared how his passion for science, technology and problem-solving turned into a career that has a real impact on agriculture and everyday life.

"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."

During the one-day event, FFA members attended career-based workshops including: 'From Farm to Finance' with Alison Kepner from Compeer Financial, 'A Career in Agricultural Engineering' with Ian Hansen from MSA Professional Services, Inc., 'Discover Food Science' with Grace Lewis from UW-River Falls, 'Careers in Marketing and Insurance' with Jenny Martin from Rural Mutual Insurance Company, 'Career Paths within Agricultural Coops' with Joe Sikora from Insight FS and 'Understanding Animal Behavior' with Beth McIlquham from 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."

The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation sponsors FFA Farm Forum in cooperation with the Wisconsin Association of FFA. The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation was established in 1988 to provide support for agricultural education and leadership programs. Through donations and other contributions, the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation invests time and resources to support the next generation of agriculturists. 

General photos and chapter photos from FFA Farm Forum are available here.