Career Development Events (CDE's)
Career Development Events build on what is learned in agricultural classes and encourage members to put their knowledge into practice. These events are designed to help a member prepare for a career in agriculture by testing and challenging the student's technical, leadership, interpersonal and teamwork skills as well as their knowledge of the subject matter. CDEs answer the question, "When will I use this knowledge in the real world?"
A four member team demonstrates the professional sales process including customer relations, advertising and promotion, telephone skills and product display. Members also complete an exam, present a project summary and make a sales presentation for an agricultural product. They complete one of four practical problems and cooperatively solve a market analysis problem.
During this event, team members complete a written exam, evaluate dairy cattle on physical characteristics and analyze cows based on pedigree and herd record. Teams consist of three or four members and the top three scores are compiled for team results.
Classroom knowledge and skills are applied as students identify and evaluate cut flowers, house plants, flowering plants, floral designs and complete an exam that tests their knowledge of floral design, propagation as well as preparation of floral and foliage products for sale.
This CDE allows members to observe and evaluate in order to rank horses based on breed characteristics and conformation. Performance classes are evaluated within various equestrian styles. American Quarter Horse standards are used in performance classes. Three or four member teams with the top three scores counting toward team score.
Beef cattle, sheep and swine are evaluated for market values and desirable physical traits. Team members also rank livestock for breeding purposes, using observed physical characteristics and performance data.
As a result of event outcomes, members develop a greater understanding of quality production, processing, distribution, promotion, marketing and consumption of dairy products. Team members complete a written exam, evaluate milk samples, identify cheeses and distinguish real and artificial dairy foods. Teams are composed of three or four members. The top three scores are tabulated in the team score.
Students working in teams demonstrate their technical competency with small and large animals by completing a written exam, critical-thinking scenario questions, identifications and hands-on practicums.
Students apply the information gained through enrollment in the agricultural science wildlife management course to demonstrate and identify plant species, proper habitat management practices, safety procedures, game laws, management techniques as well as compass and pacing skills.