During this week’s 98th National FFA Convention & Expo, FFA members get the opportunity to explore the Expo Hall, an interactive and engaging experience where they can make career connections.
Inside the Indiana Convention Center’s 400,000-square-foot space, more than 300 individuals are representing colleges, the U.S. Armed Services, manufacturers and more. FFA members can also interact with representatives from well-known agriculture brands and National FFA corporate partners, including John Deere, Claas and Tractor Supply Company.
“There is a ton of behind-the-scenes work that goes into planning this event,” says FFA Expo Events Manager Haley Perry. “Planning starts a year out, and there’s a lot of work that happens before the first box ever gets unloaded.”
The planning process to transform this open space into a vibrant experience for members includes an application process for event participants, mapping out the floor plan and figuring out logistics for how to get equipment, such as tractors, inside the Indiana Convention Center.
“All those little details you might not think of really do play a key role in making the FFA Expo a success,” Perry adds.
One exhibitor, Aaron Belanger with AGCO Corporation, set up for his 11th National FFA Convention & Expo this year with a Golden Tractor that the 2024-25 National FFA Officers will sign. He says the career opportunities that can come out of this event are endless.
“Our current CEO was an FFA officer, so we have a standing open invitation for any officer and any FFA member to come apply at AGCO,” Belanger says. “We really value the leadership and the education it brings to potential employees.”
Perry says the Expo Hall vendors recognize the value of these early conversations with prospective employees. As an FFA Alumna, she encourages members and alums to make those connections.
“Don’t be intimidated,” she adds. “Talk to everybody, and collect every brochure. Take selfies, and just have a really good time here.”
