Young Leaders Gain Skills at AFA Agriculture Conference

By Scout Nelson

On November 1, 19 Ohio State University students traveled to Kansas City, Missouri, to participate in the Agriculture Future of America (AFA) Leaders Conference. The event supports college students preparing for careers in agriculture and helps develop essential leadership and professional skills for lifelong success.

The conference aims to connect academic knowledge, leadership training, and workplace experience while increasing student awareness of industry trends and career opportunities. Participants also benefit from networking with peers and leaders in the agriculture field.

Students attended various sessions based on their experience level, divided into tracks from one to four. Sessions included Resume Building, Ethics in the Workplace, Making a Positive Impact, Pursuing Lifelong Leadership, and an Opportunity Fair. AFA also partnered with Numana to package 28,314 meals to send overseas, emphasizing service and global responsibility.

Speakers included Dr. Jay Lehr from the Heartland Institute, Sara Wyant of Agri-Pulse, John Hill from LinkedIn, Dr. Ron Hanson of the University of Nebraska, and Ed Ide from CGB Enterprises, among others. Wyant inspired delegates with the message, “It’s just that energy that drives you. If you find it, that’s the basis in having a passion.”

A key event was The Leader in Agriculture Award Dinner, honoring Dr. Barry Flinchbaugh of Kansas State University and Howard G. Buffett, CEO of the Howard G. Buffett Foundation. Howard W. Buffett announced that 40 Track 1 delegates would receive sponsorship to attend future conferences.

The OSU students also toured the national headquarters of the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity, further expanding their agricultural knowledge and networking opportunities.

Caitlyn Black, a second-year Food Science and Technology student, reflected, “The level and quality of speakers was outstanding, and the connections I established were unique. The conference motivated me to continue agricultural advocacy.” Students left the event inspired, recognizing the importance of leadership, responsibility, and the future of agriculture.

Photo Credit: istock-fangxianuo