During the 2025 National FFA Agricultural Technology and Mechanical Systems Career Development Event (CDE), FFA members put their technical knowledge and skills to the test. Hosted in the Indiana State Fairgrounds Champions Pavilion, this CDE recognizes students’ ability to work as a team, solve problems and apply practical, hands-on skills.
“Many of our students are going on to college in agricultural education, engineering or agribusiness,” says Dr. Rick Ford, National FFA Agricultural Technology and Mechanical Systems CDE superintendent-elect. “Some of them will graduate and go into construction or trade schools.”
Ford says this competition not only challenges FFA members technically, but also strengthens their communication and teamwork.
“The development of soft skills, public relations and the ability to speak and communicate — all those skills, regardless of career, are very important,” he adds.
This year’s competition also challenged competitors to work as a team to build a small engine stand, then document the project in a team report. Jim Coxbill and his teammates from the Snowy Ridge FFA Chapter in Wyoming came prepared with matching Hawaiian shirts — and the skills to get the job done.
“We had to use a plasma cutter, then do a team write up on a computer,” Coxbill says. “Basic welding, cutting and wood construction are a lot of good skills that can get you into trade jobs.”
Sawyer Hawkins and his teammates from the Texico FFA Chapter in New Mexico listened to music on the bus ride to the competition to get in the zone and ready to compete. He says this experience helped prepare his team to reach their future career goals.
“I’m looking to be a pipeline welder, and some of my guys are looking to become engineers,” Hawkins says. “I’ve never learned more in any school program.”
Access to more information about FFA career and leadership development events, or dive into career pathways and additional resources on AgExplorer.
