Celebrating National FFA Week: Growing the Future of Agriculture Together

National FFA Week is a time to celebrate the powerful impact agriculture has on our communities, our economy, and our future, and to recognize the organization that continues to shape the next generation of agricultural leaders. At First Bank and Trust Company, agriculture is more than an industry we serve; it’s a way of life we believe in. That’s why we are proud supporters of FFA and the vital role it plays in promoting, educating, and inspiring those who will lead agriculture forward.

Founded on the principles of leadership, personal growth, and career success, FFA exposes students to the many opportunities available in agriculture. Today’s agricultural careers span finance, technology, science, education, conservation, and business, all while remaining rooted in feeding, fueling, and sustaining our world. FFA helps students see that agriculture isn’t just a job. It’s a lifelong pathway filled with purpose and impact.

Developing Leaders Who Power Our Economy

Agriculture plays a critical role in our local and national economy, and its success depends on knowledgeable, passionate leaders who understand both the land and the business behind it. Through hands-on learning, competitions, supervised agricultural experiences, and leadership development, FFA equips students with real-world skills.

These skills don’t just stay in the classroom. They translate directly into careers that support farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses, and rural communities. Many of today’s agricultural professionals can trace their roots back to an FFA jacket and a chapter meeting that helped spark their passion.

FFA’s Impact at First Bank and Trust

At First Bank and Trust, our Ag Division works closely with producers and agribusinesses every day. We understand that strong relationships and deep agricultural knowledge are essential to serving our customers well. For many of our Agricultural Lenders, that foundation began with FFA.

"FFA enabled me to become a part of a larger organization that not only focused on production agriculture but the business and professional aspects as well.  It helped me to incorporate the hard work ethic from the farm to my professional life. The leadership programs, contests, and skills that being an FFA member exposed me to helped to diversify my networking groups and find a job that I loved and wanted to help others with each day."

- Ashlie Howell, VP/ Agricultural/Commercial Loan Officer

FFA didn’t just introduce Ashlie Howell to agriculture, it helped pave the way. From learning how to speak confidently in front of a group to understanding the economics behind farming operations, FFA provided experiences that continue to shape how she serves customers today.

Inspiring the Next Generation

One of the most powerful aspects of FFA is its ability to open doors. By exposing students to the wide variety of careers available in agriculture, FFA helps young people discover paths they may never have considered. Whether students go on to become producers, lenders, researchers, educators, or entrepreneurs, FFA plays a role in preparing them to succeed.

That preparation is critical not just for individual careers, but for the future of agriculture itself. As the industry continues to evolve, it will require innovative thinkers, strong leaders, and dedicated advocates. FFA is helping build that future today.

Proud Ag and FFA Supporters

At First Bank and Trust Company, we are proud to support agriculture and the organizations that strengthen it. Our commitment to FFA reflects our belief in investing in people, communities, and the future of agriculture. During National FFA Week, we celebrate the students, advisors, alumni, and supporters who make FFA such a powerful force. We’re grateful for the role it has played in shaping so many of the professionals we work alongside every day.

Here’s to the blue jackets, the lessons learned, and the future leaders growing through FFA.