Career and Leadership Development Events develop college and career readiness skills. The competitive events serve as an outgrowth of instruction in the agricultural education classroom for FFA members in grades 7 to 12.

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.

CDE and LDE events occur at the local, state and national level. They are are designed and regularly evaluated to meet AFNR Career Cluster Content Standards.