Tyler Worthey’s journey from a high school freshman with a passion for agriculture to a successful entrepreneur showcases the power of the National FFA Organization’s hands-on learning approach. Since 2021, Worthey has steadily built Worthey Peppers, a gourmet hot sauce business that has grown from a small idea into a flourishing venture.
“This organization provides an amazing support system,” Worthey says. “There’s such a positive environment when you’re in FFA.”
Whether you realize it or not, an SAE could lay the foundation for a future career related to agriculture. After you explore Worthey’s experiences, watch and learn about these FFA alums who carved their career paths thanks to interests and experiences related to their SAEs.
Worthey joined FFA during his freshman year at Neoga High School in Neoga, Ill. As part of their membership, everyone in the Neoga FFA Chapter, including Worthey, was required to start an SAE.
Each FFA member is responsible for managing all aspects of their SAE, including budgeting, preparing financial statements and taking inventory. These experiential learning projects are designed to be student-led and work-based. They also aim to provide hands-on experiences and help develop competencies for careers in agriculture and natural resources.
