Ten winners of the 2022 Agricultural Proficiency Awards were named during the sixth session of the 95th National FFA Convention & Expo on Friday, Oct. 28, which is being held in Indianapolis
Agricultural Proficiency Awards honor FFA members who, through supervised agricultural experiences (SAEs), have developed specialized skills that they can apply toward their future careers. Students compete in areas ranging from agricultural communications to wildlife management. Proficiency awards are also recognized at local and state levels and provide recognition to members exploring and becoming established in agricultural career pathways.
Today, awards were announced for ten of the 45 categories during the sixth general convention session.
These recipients include
Small Animal Production and Care -- Entrepreneurship/Placement -- Halle Miller of Norwayne FFA Chapter in Ohio owns Borders of Eby Eden, an operation that sells Bordoodle puppies--border collies crossed with poodles--throughout the U. S. Her enterprise grew from two dogs to six and she has sold 88 puppies with more than 20 depositors awaiting their own. Miller provides early neurological stimulation, genetic research, vet care and reproductive support. She is supported by her parents, Robin and Mike.
Turf Grass Management -- Entrepreneurship/Placement -- While in middle school, Nathaniel McCandlish of the Fairfield Union FFA Chapter in Ohio began mowing lawns for family and friends in his neighborhood. Before long, his efforts grew into his own business. In addition to mowing, he offers lawn aeration, seeding, fertilizing and revitalization. McCandlish owns all his equipment, assumes all expenses and receives all profits. His parents let him use their shop for storage in exchange for maintaining their lawn. McCandlish is supported by his parents, Carrie and Gene.
Vegetable Production -- Entrepreneurship/Placement -- Griffin Craig Gillmore of the Lakota FFA Chapter in Ohio has been engaged in his family farm for as long as he can remember. While the majority of the 1,780 acres are devoted to growing sugar beets, approximately 200 acres are dedicated to peppers, pickles, cabbage and sweet corn. Gillmore operates the 7120 Magnum tractor paired to the custom built 120' conveyer system that is used for harvesting pickles. Gillmore is supported by his parents, Lisa and Craig.
The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 850,000 student members as part of 8,995 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Categories: Ohio, Business, Crops, Rural Lifestyle