By Kate Cooper, State FFA Vice President
From immersive industry tours to meeting leaders across different regions, August had a little bit of everything!
For most of our team, August marked the first time we attended the California Youth Ag Expo, and it exceeded all of our expectations! Seeing these passionate exhibitors shine in their fields and the amazing support that they received was remarkable. From there, we got to see a glimpse of our State Secretary Joseph Schohr’s hometown of Gridley. We made memories at an arcade with his friends and spent hours on the lake!
After our excursion in the Superior Region, we packed our bags and headed home to Galt, where we met with participants of the 2026 Almond Leadership Program. It was amazing to meet with leaders in the agricultural industry and share our gratitude for the Almond Board of California’s continued support of FFA.
Held at Cal Poly Pomona, the Southern Region hosted their Section Officer Leadership Summit. I will never forget the intense game of FFA Feud and joining the High Desert Section in ag olympics. After workshops, team building, and a keynote address, these leaders are ready to “MAKE WAVES” in their communities.
Alongside Corcoran FFA, we then toured the facilities of J. G. Boswell. I speak for my team when I say that this industry tour was extremely impressive and informative! We watched how the tomatoes were grown, harvested, and eventually turned into paste. From learning about their grading system for cotton, to seeing how AI is used in growing pistachios, it is clear that this vertically integrated company consistently strives for innovation and efficiency.
The following week, we were able to tour the In-N-Out distribution center. Looking at the different steps of meat processing and the preparation of fresh ingredients, the In-N-Out company clearly holds itself to a high standard, and I will never doubt their “quality you can taste.”
We then traveled across the state for Section and Chapter Officer Leadership Conferences. In the Central Region, officers built teamwork skills and learned to reach new heights as they prepare to “EMBARK” on their year of service. In the San Joaquin Region, officers stepped outside their comfort zones, practiced Kolb’s experiential learning model, and built connections as they prepared to “IGNITE.” We wrapped up in the Superior Region, where officers explored communication, self-discovery, and growth as they look toward a “STELLAR” year ahead.
As we wrap up August, we’ll be visiting chapters across California. We’re grateful for the experiences we’ve had so far and excited to hear and learn from each of your stories!
