Soaring State Students

By Pen Richards

Publish Date: April 29, 2025

With multiple podium placements in Vet Science, Poultry evaluation, and Creed speaking at the FFA State Convention, NWCTA’s FFA chapter is soaring with its students’ success.

“Coming in first for Creed speaking was absolutely surreal for me; I never thought I would make it so far,” freshman Ethan Droegemueller stated. “After we did the mock creed in front of FFA and chose who would go to winter leadership, I was sure I would not be the one going.”

FFA had yet another freshman place first for Creed speaking this year and was granted the chance to go to nationals. Among the club's placers, Ethan wasn’t the only member allowed to go to Nationals, as their poultry evaluation team also placed first.

“I’m more shaken to my nerves about it. I never thought I would make it so far; I was just doing it as an opportunity to try something new and to enjoy the first year of high school,” Droegemueller expressed. “I am excited to go to nationals, to get to meet new FFA members and just have fun!”

Nationals will take place in Indianapolis next year, with competitors from the NWCTA chapter flying out to participate in national-level competitions. While disappointed at being unable to compete at nationals, fellow FFA members are excited for Droegemeuller and the poultry team.

“I’m very happy for them, especially since I know them personally and how hard they worked, and I hope they win,” sophomore Alexi Rich smiled. “I’m disappointed I didn’t win, but there’s always next year. I know it’s cliche, but never give up on something you aspire to do.”