(CGUHS) On Tuesday, January 30, FFA members traveled to Central Arizona College (CAC) to compete in the South Central Region FFA AgriScience Career Development Events (CDE) to help students develop the abilities to think critically, communicate clearly, and perform effectively in a competitive job market. Performance at regional competitions dictates a FFA member’s ability to compete at both the state and national level.
Employability Skills Leadership Development
Competitors (Deztyni Carrillo & Melynda Zettle) prepared a resume and cover letter prior to the event. At the competition, they participated in a rigorous job interview. Both students will have the opportunity to apply for state competition.
Agricultural Mechanics
Competitors (Darla Debold, Cameron Lyons, Ian Elliott, Casey DeCarlo, & Elijah Mount) competed in several diverse categories including tool identification, welding scenarios, copper soldering, PVC construction, electrical scenarios, and a team problem-solving activity. Students will have the opportunity for state testing which will dictate their involvement in the state competition.
Agricultural Sales
Competitors (Thomas Hartman, Kaylee Larkin, Gunner Manterola, & Summer Partain) were assigned an agricultural-related product that they had to design a marketing strategy to present to an interviewing board. The team earned 3rd Place. They learned a lot during their regional competition which they will utilize while preparing to compete at state this year.
Dairy Evaluation
Competitors evaluated cattle's physical characteristics, explained their various classes, and analyzed a herd record as a team. Students gained a greater understanding of dairy cattle management and became knowledgeable in areas that include animal welfare, biosecurity, business management, current issues, environmental management, and safety practices. Team A (Lacey Benge, Olivia Vance, Peyton Elliott, & Rannyn Shuman) earned 1st Place and Team B (Caden Martinez, Claire Murrieta, Lyla Shaw, & Rylee Shuman) earned 2nd Place. Earning placement in individual competition were: Rannyn Shuman (1st Place), Peyton Elliott (2nd Place), and Lyla Shaw (3rd Place).