One of the largest youth gatherings in the country — and a major event for the agricultural world — is set to kick off later this month in Indianapolis. The 98th FFA National Convention and Expo will take place from October 29th through November 1st, bringing more than 70,000 students, educators, and guests to the Hoosier State.
You’ll recognize them by their iconic blue corduroy jackets — a tradition that dates back nearly a century. Members of the National FFA Organization, formerly known as Future Farmers of America, will travel from across all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and even the U.S. Virgin Islands to take part.
“When you look at it from a perspective for some FFA members, it’s a pinnacle of their event, and for others, it’s a launching point of their FFA career. So it’s an opportunity to hear motivational speakers, hear from our national officers, compete in competitive events. This year, we will recognize the highest record number of American farmer degrees or American degree recipients than we’ve had in the past,” says Chief program officer of the National FFA Organization Christine White.
The convention features everything from competitions in agri-science and public speaking to a sprawling career expo with hundreds of exhibitors, showcasing the latest in agricultural technology, education, and workforce opportunities.
According to White, “we will have workshops throughout convention that students can engage in and be able to learn new things and take that back to their home communities. We also have career success tours, so exposing students to agricultural career opportunities in the greater Indianapolis area, so they can go visit different locations, but just to learn a little bit more about those pieces. So it’s about really opening horizons and providing good connection points with real life experiences that they may not get in their local communities.”
This year’s theme is “Evolve,” encouraging members to embrace innovation and leadership in the changing landscape of agriculture.
The FFA Convention has become an annual tradition in Indianapolis, drawing one of the largest convention crowds the city sees each year. With nearly 100 years of history, the event remains a powerful reminder of the next generation’s role in feeding and fueling the world.
