Missouri’s “Drive Your Tractor to Work Day”
Missouri FFA members watching Gov. Mike Kehoe drive up to the state capitol.
During National FFA Week, Missouri has a tradition called “Drive Your Tractor to Work Day.” This is where Gov. Mike Kehoe drives his tractor from the Missouri Governor’s Mansion to the front of the state capitol, where hundreds of Missouri FFA members await. When the governor drives up, he is accompanied by the Missouri FFA president (Ivy Elwell this year). Following them is the State Director of Agriculture, Chris Chin, and the Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education, Dr. Karla Eslinger.
This event happens as a symbolic gesture to recognize the importance of agriculture to the state and its heritage. Gov. Kehoe stated in his speech to FFA members, “Missouri’s strength begins in our farms, classrooms and with our communities.”
Kehoe said, “I learned more about life through agriculture than anything else I’ve done.”
This is more than just an event to honor agriculture; it’s also to celebrate and recognize the FFA as an organization. When Kehoe addressed all of the FFA members present, he said, “National FFA Week is an opportunity to celebrate students and an organization that brings all three together. We are proud to stand with these young leaders and recognize the bright future they represent for Missouri.”
This statement solidifies how important FFA is to Gov. Kehoe. The event concluded with words from a few other industry professionals who also emphasized the vital role FFA plays in shaping the next generation of community leaders and farmers. Together, all their words made sure that every FFA member present knew that they are a part of that future generation and they can impact in more ways than they can imagine.
