Members of the Chattooga County FFA chapter have spent the past several days in Indianapolis, Indiana, participating in the 99th National FFA Convention and Expo, joining tens of thousands of agricultural education students from across the United States.

The annual convention provides FFA members with opportunities to develop leadership skills, explore career opportunities, learn about agricultural industries and connect with students who share similar interests.

During the second day of the convention, Chattooga FFA members visited the College and Career Expo, where they explored educational programs and career opportunities available after high school. The expo brings together colleges, universities, agricultural businesses and other organizations to introduce students to potential career paths.

Students also attended the annual FFA members-only concert, featuring country music artist Ty Myers. The concert brought together thousands of FFA members for an evening of entertainment.

On the third day, Chattooga students attended their first general convention session, joining more than 70,000 FFA members from across the country. The session featured keynote speaker Scott McKain, who addressed students about leadership and personal development.

Later that day, the group toured Fischer’s Food Grade Seeds and Farms, a third-generation agricultural operation specializing in hybrid seed corn, soybeans and grain processing.

The company produces and processes food-grade white and yellow corn, soybeans, wheat, rye and barley for domestic and international customers. Its operations also include non-genetically modified and organic grain production.

During the tour, Chattooga students visited the soybean and corn processing facilities and learned about the equipment and technology used in modern agricultural production.

The experience gave students an opportunity to see firsthand how agricultural products move from the farm through processing and into markets around the world.

On the fourth day, students returned to the convention’s expo hall to explore additional exhibits and educational opportunities.

They also visited the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where they participated in the famous “Kiss the Bricks” tour. The tradition involves kissing the historic brick surface at the speedway’s finish line, a custom associated with winners of major races at the facility.

The group rounded out the day with outdoor go-karting activities.

Chattooga FFA members also planned to recognize several chapter alumni during the final day of the convention, celebrating their accomplishments and continued involvement in agricultural education.

The National FFA Convention is one of the largest annual student gatherings in the country, bringing together young people involved in agricultural education from all 50 states.

For Chattooga County students, the trip provides experiences extending beyond the classroom, offering exposure to agricultural technology, higher education, career possibilities and leadership development.