Standard 8: Business & Community Partnerships

With rapidly evolving technology and workforce demands, preparing students for successful careers is more challenging—and more important—than ever. To ensure that my students are well-equipped for the workforce, I plan to establish a strong advisory committee composed of local community members and industry professionals. This group will be selected based on the specific needs and goals of the agricultural education program, as well as the unique opportunities available in the surrounding area.

By fostering meaningful connections between advisory board members and active FFA chapter students, I hope to create pathways for future internships, work-based learning (WBL) experiences, and even potential employment opportunities. The guidance and insight provided by the advisory committee will help keep the program relevant, practical, and aligned with industry standards. Attached below is the National FFA Advisory Committee Manual, which I plan to use as a foundational resource when establishing my own advisory board.

My advisory board timeline outlines a strategic approach to gaining valuable classroom experience before developing and implementing a formal advisory board within my program. Establishing a strong and effective advisory board is a top priority, as it will play a vital role in enhancing the educational experiences and career opportunities available to my students. To ensure its success, I am committed to thoughtfully selecting qualified, engaged community members and industry professionals who can offer meaningful guidance, support, and real-world expertise. This intentional process will help build a well-rounded, industry-aligned agricultural education program that promotes student growth, career readiness, and strong community partnerships.