Dirt vs. Data: West Hardin FFA Tackles AI
As artificial intelligence continues to expand, so does the demand for the data centers that power it. But what does that growth mean for agriculture? That’s the question West Hardin FFA members are exploring as they make their first appearance in the Agricultural Issues Forum Career Development Event (CDE).
According to the National FFA Organization, the Agricultural Issues Forum CDE challenges FFA members to research current agricultural issues, develop presentations, and share their findings with public audiences. The event encourages participants to examine issues at the local, state, national, and international levels while developing their understanding through research, portfolios, presentations, and questioning.
For its first year participating, West Hardin FFA chose to explore the growing conflict between agriculture and artificial intelligence data centers. The team is examining how the expansion of these facilities may affect agricultural communities and the resources they depend on. Members have worked together to research the issue and develop a portfolio presenting their findings.
For Caylee Williams, participating in agricultural issues forum has offered an opportunity to build confidence, strengthen public speaking skills, and gain a deeper understanding of challenges facing agriculture.
“Ag issues really drew me in whenever I realized the benefits that came with it, whether it’s confidence in public speaking or getting a closer insight to the challenges faced in agriculture. My role on our ag issues team is to introduce our topic. We decided to focus on the conflict between agriculture and AI data centers. I’ve contributed a major part into our research for the portfolio. Ag issues is an extremely valuable way to get involved intensively in any agriculture issue you find interesting,” Williams explained.
As first-time participants, West Hardin FFA members are using the forum to explore an issue at the intersection of technology and agriculture while learning to research multiple perspectives and communicate their findings.
For the chapter, entering agricultural issues forum marks a new opportunity to bring important agricultural conversations to the forefront and give FFA members experience examining issues that could affect the industry’s future.
