For 30 Tennessee high school students, the Future Farmers Conference was more than just a standard event – it was a life-changing experience. With support from Farm Credit Mid-America, these students walked away with renewed inspiration to return to their family farms and build new agricultural ventures.
Often seen as the future of farming, these students were given a unique opportunity to see what their personal dreams and aspirations could look like in reality. The three-day conference, a direct result of Farm Credit Mid-America's commitment to youth development in agriculture, offered them a powerful blend of exposure, education and encouragement. The experience began with farm tours across Farm Credit Mid-America’s territory, where the students explored the land, observed livestock operations and learned directly from seasoned farmers. The goal of these tours was to inspire the students and prove that, with the right support, their farming goals are within reach.
Chelsea Carpenter, executive director of Tennessee FFA said, “Our partnership with Farm Credit
Mid-America has been instrumental in elevating the voices of our future leaders and showcasing
tangible advancements and practices within the industry.”
Beyond the field tours, industry experts met with the group to share both guidance and first-hand knowledge of how to navigate the highs and lows of farming. One student shared, the experience went beyond technical knowledge, instilling a belief that dedication and support could turn their dreams into reality.
The students gained new information, a renewed sense of purpose and a network of mentors. “Participants left the conference with an arsenal of knowledge in areas like crop and livestock production, field nursery operations, soil management and financial planning,” Carpenter said. “Together, we are shaping a dynamic, forward-thinking landscape that empowers young farmers and enriches our entire community.”
For these students, the Future Farmers Conference was a pivotal moment—one that solidified their commitment to agriculture and gave them the tools, knowledge and encouragement to pursue their dreams. Farm Credit Mid-America is helping put the future of farming in capable and passionate hands.
