Thursday  
 
   
 
10:30 a.m.      
     

From the Ranch to the Feed: Why Our Story Can’t Stay Behind the Gate

Presenter: Tucker Brown, R.A. Brown Ranch

Location: FWCC - Lone Star Stage


As a sixth-generation rancher, Tucker Brown was raised to believe that good stewardship happens quietly behind the ranch gate. But in today’s world, silence has a cost. This workshop shares how honoring ranching traditions and embracing modern advocacy go hand in hand. Tucker explains how social media and authentic storytelling build trust with consumers. Participants will be encouraged to use their own voice and story to strengthen agriculture for the next generation.

       
   

Stay #ROOTED in a Scroll World

Presenter: Dawson Shannon, Springtown ISD

Location: FWCC - Room 202 AB


Stay #ROOTED in a Scroll World is an engaging workshop designed to help students and young leaders stay grounded in real-world skills, values and agriculture roots in today's fast-moving digital culture. We will explore the importance of balancing technology with authentic experiences through interactive discussions, leadership activities, and practical connections to agriculture and FFA principles. The workshop emphasizes work ethic, responsibility, and personal growth-encouraging attendees to build their future on purpose and character, not just algorithms. Stay truly ROOTED in what matters most.

       
     

The Secret Sauce to Success: Closer Than You Think

Presenter: Tayler Sullivent Garcia, National Roper Supply

Location: FWCC - Room 202 CD


Students are often given resources that build the foundation of leadership. However, one of the most important components of leadership is self-awareness. This session demonstrates how understanding your leadership personality improves effectiveness. Participants will gain tools to better understand themselves and why it matters. Students will leave recognizing that leadership begins with the individual they see in the mirror.

       
     

From Show Ring to the Real Work: Turning Livestock Experience into Career Skills

Presenter: Riley Reep, Texas Pork Producers

Location: FWCC - Room 203 A-C


Through showing livestock in FFA, you learn the power of hard work, resilience, and how to serve others. You connect with a community that becomes your family. However, your journey doesn't have to end at the show ring. Our industry is filled with unlimited possibilities. In this interactive session, students will learn how to translate their livestock experience into real-world career advantages. This workshop will help them recognize the value of their experiences and confidently step from the show ring into the real world.

     

   

Cooking up Communication

Presenter: Hailey Pleasants, Maryland FFA Association

Location: FWCCC - Room 204 A


“Cooking Up Communication” teaches students the importance of clear communication, teamwork, and leadership within FFA chapters. Through hands-on activities like building a PB and J sandwich and completing a Taco Tower challenge, participants see how unclear directions can lead to mistakes. The workshop also explores how word choice and slang can cause misunderstandings. Students practice giving clear instructions, adapting communication styles, and leading a team effectively. The session reinforces that strong communication and positive leadership are key to successful teamwork.


2:00 p.m.      

   

Texas Majors: Your Home for Opportunity

Presenter: Texas Major Shows Panel

Location: FWCC - Lone Star Stage


Join representatives from the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, State Fair of Texas, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and Rodeo Austin to discover everything the Texas Major Shows have to offer! Beyond livestock and ag mechanics, explore opportunities in public speaking, shooting sports, ag science fairs, taxidermy, and more; all while learning how many of these events can lead to valuable scholarships. There’s more than meets the eye. Don’t miss it!

       
 

   

Visiting State Officer Panel

Presenters: Owen Kelly, Louisiana FFA, Byron Lopez, Mississippi FFA, Alex Wise, Oregon FFA

Location: FWCC - Room 201 A-C


Join state presidents from Louisiana, Oregon, and Mississippi for a unique panel exploring FFA experiences from across the country. Discover how chapters in other states build leadership, serve their communities, and create opportunities for members. From traditions and challenges to innovative ideas and national perspectives, this session will broaden your understanding of what it means to be part of FFA beyond Texas.

       

   

From the Ranch to the Feed: Why Our Story Can’t Stay Behind the Gate

Presenter: Tucker Brown, R.A. Brown Ranch

Location: Room 203 A-C


As a sixth-generation rancher, Tucker Brown was raised to believe that good stewardship happens quietly behind the ranch gate. But in today’s world, silence has a cost. This workshop shares how honoring ranching traditions and embracing modern advocacy go hand in hand. Tucker explains how social media and authentic storytelling build trust with consumers. Participants will be encouraged to use their own voice and story to strengthen agriculture for the next generation.

       
     

Technology, Innovation & Building a Profitable Career in the Green Industry

Presenter: Sarah Riggins, Texas Nursery and Landscape Association

Location: FWCC - Room 204A


The Texas Green Industry is changing fast—and students who act now can position themselves at the front of one of Texas’ most innovative and profitable career fields. In this session, you will discover how today’s nursery, landscape, greenhouse, and garden center careers combine plants, technology, and business to create real-world opportunities. See how automation, data, robotics, water management, and digital tools are already being used on the job—and how they can start building skills leading to leadership roles, entrepreneurship, and business ownership. This is your chance to think beyond traditional career paths and equip yourself with practical next steps to turn interests into a successful career through college, technical training, or hands-on experience.