FFA.org
The National FFA Organization, the nation’s premier school-based student leadership organization with over one million members, recently hosted the 2026 New Century Farmer Conference in Indianapolis, July 18-22. The conference brought together 45 elite FFA alumni from 23 states to advance their leadership and career skills while learning about working in the industry of agriculture.
“One of the most valuable aspects of New Century Farmer is bringing together young producers from diverse agricultural backgrounds to learn from industry experts and one another,” said Emma Slavens, National FFA Program Manager, Alumni and Supporters. “The conversations, mentorship and hands-on experiences inspire participants to think differently about the future of their businesses while building a network they’ll rely on throughout their careers.”
New Century Farmer Conference attendees had the opportunity to learn from industry experts on topics that are relevant to young producers, explore diverse farm business operations, engage directly with leaders in agriculture, communications and business, network with other extraordinary young entrepreneurs and develop a vision statement for the future of their operation.
As part of the conference, participants visited four Central Indiana businesses – Simply From Scratch, Corteva Agriscience, CNH Industrial and Reynolds John Deere dealership. Simply From Scratch, a family-owned farm-to-table business in Noblesville, hosted discussions with Firestone Ag and Tractor Supply Company. Corteva Agriscience held a speed dating and crop protection tour, and CNH Industrial held a tour and discussions. Reynolds John Deere, a premier equipment dealer proudly serving farmers, homeowners, landscapers, and commercial contractors, hosted attendees for a tour. In addition, Farm Credit held a discussion with participants on the financial aspects of getting into or starting a business. Breakout sessions were also facilitated by National FFA throughout the conference.
The following regional FFA alumni were selected to attend the conference:
Michigan
Savannah Mauk
Nebraska
Ian Schiller
Jadyn Tidyman
North Dakota
Ireland Watterud
Wisconsin
Crystal Anhalt
Josie Bailey
Brandon Boyd
Amalia Draxler
Tyson Gehrke
Aubree Logghe
Sam Mell
Janelle Wolfe
The New Century Farmer Conference occurs annually, and the 2027 conference will be held in Kansas City, MO from July 17-21. Applications will open on December 15, 2026.
The Level 1 Corporate Partners of the FFA New Century Farmer Conference are Case IH, Corteva Agriscience and John Deere.
National FFA Organization news release
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