CDE Competitors Show the Science Behind Agriculture

Every year at the National FFA Convention & Expo, FFA members put their knowledge and skills to the test in Career Development Events (CDEs). In the Agronomy CDE, teams develop an oral presentation and written plan to address an agronomy scenario, while individual events test members’ ability to identify crops, seeds, soils, weeds, insects and plant diseases. Competitors also demonstrate their knowledge of crop quality and nutrient deficiencies, applying what they know about the science behind growing healthy crops. 

Agronomy CDE superintendent Jamie Bultemeier calls the Agronomy CDE “unique,” as it is closely developed in partnership with the American Society of Agronomy. “The Agronomy CDE is relevant to those individuals heading into the industry because that’s the skill set we’re focusing on,” he adds. 

The event’s industry relevance is also reflected in the FFA members’ experience. 

Keith Schmid from the Odessa FFA Chapter in Delaware recognizes that the Agronomy CDE develops practical skills that can be applied to various career paths. “Identifying the crops, any issues they might have, [such as] nitrogen deficiency, phosphorous deficiencies,” are all skills Schmid has developed. “There’s many opportunities for jobs within this agronomic field,” adds National FFA Agronomy CDE staff member, Jeff Stockler. 

Beyond the extensive career opportunities, members also value the opportunity to apply in-classroom experiences to a competitive setting. FFA member Camielle Jang, from the Bergen County Academies FFA Chapter in New Jersey, is excited to see classroom science concepts being applied to the practical industry experiences seen throughout the Agronomy CDE. 

Participants also highlight the personal development gained through this event. Says Margaret Bunn from the Dayton FFA Chapter in Oregon: “There are so many life skills that you learn when you’re doing new things and trying new competitions.”

As members continue to explore careers in agronomy and strengthen their agricultural knowledge, the Agronomy CDE continues to provide meaningful experiences that prepare members for future opportunities in the industry. For Mason McCoy of the Honey Path Middle School in South Carolina, his experience can be summed up in one word: “memorable.”