By Scout Nelson
Cowley College recently welcomed FFA students from across Kansas to its Sumner Campus in Wellington for the South-Central Kansas FFA District Agricultural Mechanics Career Development Event. The contest was held on March 25, 2026, and brought about 100 students from 26 high school chapters, highlighting the strong interest in agricultural education across the state.
The event gave students a chance to show their skills in several important areas of agricultural mechanics. Contest categories included welding, electrical systems, small gas engines, farm equipment, and concrete basics.
These hands-on activities helped students apply classroom learning in a practical setting and build skills that are important for future jobs in agriculture and equipment technology.
Support from local and regional partners also played an important role in the event. The concrete section of the competition was supported by Conco Construction. Prize support came from Tractor Supply in Wellington, Mill Creek Lumber in Wellington, Arrowhead Animal Clinic, and Z’s Bees. Their support helped provide tools, personal protective equipment, and Cowley College clothing for top performers.
Belle Plaine FFA earned first place as the overall team champion. Team members included Zaden Cox, Emmett Lawless, Ryder Slack, and Lane Osgood. The top overall individual competitor came from Hillsboro FFA, though the student was not identified at the time of the release because of unexpected circumstances in the Hillsboro community. Cowley College plans to recognize that achievement later.
The event was coordinated with district leadership, including District Host and Belle Plaine High School agriculture teacher Jason Carl. “Thank you to Cowley College for providing the South-Central Kansas FFA District with a location for the Ag Mechanics Contest.
About 100 students from area high schools participated and were able to experience the Cowley facilities in Wellington. A special thanks goes to Zach Cooper, Marlin Burcham, and Cowley staff that were able to help coordinate the day of the contest,” said Carl.
This Kansas event shows the value of agricultural contests in preparing students for future careers. Teams now continue getting ready for state competition later this semester, with hopes of advancing to the national level. No event link was provided in the shared content.
Photo Credit: kansas-ffa-foundation
Categories: Kansas, Education