Two of Maine’s technical student organizations, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and Future Farmers of America (FFA), joined forces for the first time at the Augusta Armory to provide nearly 100 high school students with fast-paced leadership training on Nov. 1.
Workshop topics included the role of FFA and FBLA in helping their members realize personal growth, become better leaders, and gain skills to help them be successful in their future careers. Students participated in discussions and interactive group activities, having a chance to meet peers from other schools and to learn skills that may help them after graduation.
At the leadership training, student members of FFA and FBLA came from chapters at Erskine Academy in South China, Lewiston Regional Technical Center, Maine Region 10 Technical High School in Brunswick, Oak Hill High School in Wales, and Waldo County Technical Center. The workshop developers and presenters were 10 high school and college students from across the state.
Maine FFA President Isaac Wortman of Fort Fairfield High School spoke about FFA’s contribution toward his future career. Maine FBLA Reporter Emily Fournier of Lewiston Regional Technical Center noted the role FBLA played in helping her to become a better leader.
Maine FBLA includes high school students studying accounting, businesses, and other areas helping to prepare them for careers in business-related fields. Maine FFA represents middle and secondary students enrolled in classes in agriculture, ecology, forestry, horticulture and other areas related to agriculture and natural resources.