Planning for the future, going back to his roots

Talking with students about a future in agriculture is Mark Poeschl’s passion. As CEO of the National FFA Organization and Foundation, Poeschl sees tremendous opportunity for students pursuing an interest in agriculture, whether it’s in the field or in agricultural technology.

Poeschl will address FFA students during the Western Farm Show’s FFA Day on Feb. 23. FFA is an intracurricular student organization for those interested in agriculture and leadership. The organization is not just for students who want to be production farmers. It welcomes members who aspire to other careers, as well, including teachers, doctors, scientists and business owners. The National FFA Organization remains committed to the individual student, providing a path to achievement in premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

“When I have the opportunity to talk with students about job opportunities in agriculture, I take it,” Poeschl said. “There are currently more jobs than qualified candidates. There’s a place for everyone and no student knows exactly where their career path will lead without the early exposure of FFA.”

Serving students in a nearly even split of both rural and urban/non-rural communities, FFA continues to help the next generation rise up to explore career options by helping its members develop their own unique talents and explore their interests in a broad range of agricultural areas.

“We are still the Future Farmers of America,” Poeschl said. “But, we are the future biologists, future chemists, future veterinarians, future engineers and future entrepreneurs of America, too.”

According to Poeschl, the FFA’s support of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) is drawing interest from all walks of life. Innovation in agriculture is critical if producers are going to feed nine billion people, he says.

“We have to include innovation to solve the challenge of feeding the world. Maybe that involves drones, robotics, or other technology,” Poeschl said. “Agricultural equipment companies are part of the solution, as they deliver technology through their products that improve efficiency and yield. We have to be willing to understand and apply technology across the board to feed everyone.”

As such, Poeschl says FFA continues to evolve and change, while evaluating its relevance in youth leadership development opportunities. Developing future leaders is FFA’s biggest strength, he says.

With this mission in mind, the FFA presence at the Western Farm Show is especially fitting. Both Kansas and Missouri FFA chapters have been active across their regions, with projects addressing beautification in public areas, solving hunger issues with community gardens and aquaculture gardens and an egg donation project. Each year, FFA distributes $800,000 in grants nationwide for various projects, generating $11 million in economic activity for communities across the U.S.

“Being at the Western Farm Show really fills my bucket to see the kids, watch how they interact, see their excitement and their passion as advocates for American agriculture,” Poeschl said. “Coming to Kansas City also brings me close to my roots. I grew up in Nebraska. I look forward to reconnecting with that geography. And I want to be part of the welcoming committee for the students who attend the show.”

The Western Farm Show is Feb. 23 to 25 at the American Royal Court, Kansas City, Missouri.