Career Development Events
Career and Leadership Development Events
Career Development Events (CDEs) and Leadership Development Events (LDEs) are designed for active FFA members to gain technical skills in agriculture careers and other professional opportunities. According to the National FFA Organization, "Through CDEs and LDEs, participating FFA members are challenged to develop critical thinking skills and effective decision-making skills, foster teamwork and promote communication while recognizing the value of ethical competition and individual achievement".
CDEs are fun and educational. Louisa FFA participates in a variety of CDEs, LDEs, and other contests offered for FFA members.
Students participating in these contests are expected to stay focused and motivated; much like the mentality of a high school sports team. Winning teams treat practices like the competition and spend time outside of practices to study and prepare for their contests.
Check in here if you're interested in learning more about these contests. You think you have what it takes? We're looking for you!
*Note: There are many other CDE/LDEs offered by the National FFA. If a student is interested in a different CDE, bring your ideas up to the members!
As one of our most popular contests, students work in teams of four to judge a class of horses on conformation and various judging classes. Students also need to know information about horse health, anatomy and physiology, breeds, tack, and much more. They will also present reasons.
Livestock Judging and Stockman's Contest
Students who are interested in judging cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs would enjoy this contest. Students need to know what producers look for when raising livestock to select the most marketable animal. There are general knowledge tests on production, breeds, meat, anatomy, and more. They will also present reasons.
A new, up and coming contest in Virginia, this contest is great for students who have taken the Turf courses at the high school. This contest is open to all students regardless of course enrollment. The Turf Management CDE involves proper maintenance, explanation of proper use of fertilizers and pesticides, grass identification, pest identification, and general knowledge.
Louisa FFA members interested in learning more about small animals and veterinary science should consider participating in the Veterinary Science CDE. The contest is challenging but very interactive for members. It involves the vast variety of knowledge required of veterinarians including anatomy, physiology, procedures, problem solving, and much more.
Students in the floral design contest learn all about the floral design techniques and practice using the principles and elements of design. This contest involves flower identification and tool identification. There is also a portion of the contest that involves budgeting and calculating costs as well as team problem solving portions as well.
Many students have enjoyed participating in the forestry contest for the hands-on skills they learn. These skills involve taking tree measurements, evaluating tree stands, identifying common trees and tools. Forestry is prominent in the local community and students may find these relevant skills applicable for local careers.
Agricultural Mechanics/Small Engines/Tractor Troubleshooting
The ag mechanics CDE is an all encompassing contest which includes topics about small engines, wood working, welding, electrical wiring, plumbing, concrete/masonry, tractor troubleshooting, land surveying, and more. Students get to practice identification of parts and tools, maintenance and operation, power calculations and measurements, and much more.
This leadership development event is a great contest for students wanting to step outside of their comfort zone and practice real-world skills. These speaking skills are directly applicable to all careers; not just agriculture. Students can practice prepared speeches, present the FFA Creed, or present extemporaneous speeches. Students can also participate in demonstrations contests or compete in Parliamentary Procedure debates.
CDE Contest Rules chart.pdfVirginia FFA Association CDE/LDE Information
*Note: some criteria might differ for Federation or Area level contests
