You may remember the scene from the 2003 classic “Napoleon Dynamite” when our hero Napoleon zips up an FFA jacket to compete in the Milk Quality and Products Career Development Event (CDE). While that may just be a scene for some, it’s a lifestyle for others. At the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo, members from across the nation competed in the Food Science and Technology CDE, developing their potential for leadership, personal growth and career success.
Ty Zollinger and Ty Atkinson, members of the Preston FFA Chapter in Idaho, shared how the movie filmed in their hometown connects to the CDE they’re participating in. “You have to be able to smell different aromas and recognize which ones are which, as well as the triangle test,” Atkinson explained. “You get three different products, and you [have to] be able to tell which one’s different.” There’s also a safety audit, Zollinger added. “We have pictures of a facility and we need to identify if there’s any problems happening in the facility or any employee or food safety issues.”
The competition is fast paced and technical, says Ashley Blilie, associate research scientist at Hormel Foods. Students have one hour to create a product based on a marketing scenario, complete costing and nutrition facts and present to judges from industry and academia. Beyond that, they complete aroma identification, math tests, product specs and food safety evaluations. “Honestly, if I was that age and ran through this, I don’t know if I could do this competition,” Blilie admits.
Members from the La.S.A.S. FFA Chapter in Louisiana share how the event opened their eyes to the journey of food from farm to table. Member Emily Dyer describes developing “GEAUX Guts,” a cherry-limeade gut health drink designed for young athletes, inspired by Louisiana pride.
Former FFA members like Blilie and Sara Talton, who is now a member of the ABAC Collegiate FFA Chapter, return each year to mentor students. “Their teamwork is astounding…and their creativity and communication will help them in their careers,” Talton says.
FFA members are proving that blue corduroy jackets can lead to lab coats all while bridging a passion for science and the future of agriculture.
