Joel and Wyatt Parker of the Cherokee FFA chapter in Cherokee, Oklahoma, have been named as national finalists this year for the Agricultural Proficiency Award program. Joel is a finalist in Diversified Agricultural Production Entrepreneurship/Placement. Wyatt is a finalist in the area of Diversified Crop Production Entrepreneurship. Only four FFA members nationwide are selected as national finalists in each agricultural proficiency award area. Final winners will be announced on stage during the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana, October 29-November 1.
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.
Joel’s award is supported in part by Merck Animal Health, Elanco, New Holland, Tractor Supply Company and Zoetis. Wyatt’s award is sponsored in part by Tractor Supply Company, Kubota, Bayer, Beck’s Hybrid and CHS Foundation.
The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,042,245 student members as part of 9,407 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.