BILLINGS, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte spoke to FFA members from across the state to help kick off the 94th Annual Montana FFA State Convention in Billings.
“Serving as the cornerstone to rural communities, our farmers and ranchers produce the best products, and work hard to feed the world,” Gov. Gianforte said. “FFA is producing the next generation of Montana leaders that will help drive our economy, create opportunities, and lead our state for years to come.”
For the third year in a row, the governor addressed 988 members, teachers, and guests during the opening session Wednesday night. The convention concludes Saturday morning.
Founded in 1930 with 26 charter chapters and 443 members, Montana FFA has since grown to boast more than 6,600 members and 109 chapters across the state.
“I got my start in FFA as a scared freshman who didn’t know where he was going in life,” said Montana FFA State President Jake Chulyak. “FFA, through its leadership and career development events, has given me the confidence to speak publicly, be confident in my own actions and found a passion for leading and helping others. This past year it has been a true honor to give back to an organization that has given me so much and helped me become the person I am today.”
FFA is a student organization that provides its members the opportunity to develop leadership skills and achieve personal growth and career success through agricultural education. Through the program, FFA members have multiple opportunities to learn and develop skills, including public speaking, marketing, veterinary science, and agronomy skills.
To support Career and Technology Student Organizations (CTSOs) like FFA, the governor last year tripled the funding for CTSOs in Montana and expanded internship and work-based learning opportunities.
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