This FFA Member Found Her Calling in Auctioneering

The National FFA Convention and Expo gives members the chance to explore careers across agriculture and beyond. For Logan Snider of Oklahoma, that opportunity led to a passion for auctioneering and an international championship.

Snider first discovered the auction industry as an eighth-grade FFA member, when Justin Kennedy introduced an auctioneering Career Development Event. Encouraged by her agriculture teacher to try new experiences, Snider decided to give it a shot.

“I absolutely fell in love with this industry,” Snider says. “I’m so passionate about it.”

Now the International Junior Auctioneer Champion, Snider says preparation, stage presence and public speaking have helped her succeed. Her experience competing in prepared speeches through FFA taught her how to handle unexpected situations and recover when things do not go as planned.

Those skills are valuable in an industry that requires quick thinking, confidence and the ability to connect with an audience.

Justin Kennedy, vice chair of the National Auction Association, says auctioneering offers opportunities that many young people may not realize exist.

“There are auctioneers out in the world that are making millions of dollars that are doing really incredible things,” Kennedy says. He adds that auctioneering skills can be valuable even for those who pursue other careers.

The industry also extends far beyond livestock auctions. Real estate, classic cars and fine art are among the many items sold through auctions, Kennedy says.

For FFA members interested in exploring the profession, Snider encourages them to get involved and embrace the experience.

“The auction industry is a huge family,” Snider says, describing the community as welcoming, supportive and encouraging.

Through FFA, Snider found a career path that combines her passion for auctioneering with skills she can continue developing throughout her future.