WASHINGTON (July 26, 2010) -- U.S. Army Accessions Command signed a memorandum of understanding July 26 with the National Association of Agricultural Educators and the National Future Farmers of America Organization to collaborate on developing skills and leadership qualities in youth.
The memorandum will allow future farmers to receive a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities and benefits of pursuing an agricultural occupation in the Army.
Other focus areas of the agreement include expanded career exploration and test-preparation resources for educators and students, along with leadership development for students.
"FFA is proud to partner with the U.S. Army to demonstrate the available career opportunities and prepare students for careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture," said Rob Cooper, executive director of the National FFA Foundation.
"Our organizations share common goals as institutions that value education, training and leadership, skills they need to succeed in life," Cooper said. He added that the MOU will not only help ensure today's youth are not only well-prepared for their career, but also enable them to be leaders that will "keep our nation strong."
"The Army is extremely proud of its relationship with FFA," said Maj. Gen. Arthur M. Bartell, commanding general, U. S. Army Cadet Command.
Bartell said the annual national FFA convention gave the Army an opportunity to demonstrate career options such as being an Army veterinarian.
"Additionally, we want to help the next generation of leaders through educational funding, advanced training, mentoring and leadership development in the many ways we can," Bartell said. "With more than 150 different career paths, the U.S. Army offers these students many options."
Through the MOU, FFA members, advisors and agricultural education teachers will benefit from a combined effort to share the Army's educational and expert resources.
The National FFA Organization has 520,284 student members, all preparing for leadership and careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture. They belong to 7,429 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. More information can be found at www.ffa.org.
The National Association of Agricultural Educators provides its nearly 8,000 members with professional networking and development opportunities, professional liability coverage, and extensive awards and recognition programs. The NAAE headquarters are in Lexington, Ky.