The Tyrone Area FFA recently made a significant impact at the 2025 ACES Conference in Harrisburg.
The Agricultural Cooperation Establishes Success (ACES) Conference provided over 2,000 FFA members with insights and skills to enhance their chapter and personal development.
The Tyrone Area FFA chapter attended over two weekends, allowing 19 local members to participate in this event.
The conference featured two tracks, allowing participants to focus on skills relevant to their specific stage in FFA.
Younger members explored topics like personal branding, perspective, trust-building with partners, official dress, and the various degrees within FFA.
Meanwhile, older members delved into stress management, motivation strategies, event planning, resume essentials, and the qualities of an effective mentor.
Senior Nevaeh Hollabaugh said she got a lot out of this year’s ACES Conference.
“This ACES was my third and final one, but it definitely was the best one I have ever had. It was eye-opening and made me realize that my high school years are coming to a close. I want to live life to the fullest and make the most of every moment,” Hollabaugh said.
In the evening, dinner and music were followed by a social gathering for conference attendees. A dance allowed members to connect with peers from other chapters, fostering friendships and creating lasting memories. A game room was also available for those who wanted a quieter area to connect.
“Through the workshops, I met people from all over the state and formed new connections and friendships. Interacting with the State FFA Officers inspired me as I learned more about agriculture and the various opportunities I can pursue in FFA,” freshman Emmanuel Luebbert said.
The following morning, students reflected on their experiences and considered how the information learned could impact their futures. This exercise encouraged members to engage with participants from different chapters, sharing stories and generating new ideas to take back to their home cahpters.
Members of the Tyrone Area FFA were presented with a challenge by their advisor to utilize the knowledge acquired in the workshops to improve specific Agricultural Education classes at the high school level. This initiative aims to foster the practical application of their learning and enhance the educational experience for their peers.
“Being able to use what I learned in the workshops at ACES and then teach a similar workshop to my Botany class helped me understand how much this conference impacted me. This experience also helped me improve my leadership skills and public speaking abilities,” junior Sarah Weakland said.
The event was sponsored by New Holland, Corteva, Farm Credit, the National Ag Ed Foundation, and the PA Department of Agriculture.
