Executive Director, Upper Valley Career Center

“Being a part of FFA and 4-H laid the foundation for my career as an agricultural educator and now in my role as a career tech administrator. The hands-on experiences and leadership opportunities taught me invaluable skills, and the colleagues I have gained continue to be a part of my network and support system.”

Financial Officer, Farm Credit Mid-America

“I learned first-hand in 4-H and FFA the importance of accountability, teamwork, and networking through hands-on leadership opportunities, such as Junior Fair Board and being a 4-H Camp Counselor. This led to my passion in the agricultural industry and ultimately, my career today where I help secure the future of rural communities through advising farmers and assisting with their next farm purchases.”

President, Wells Brothers, Inc.

“FFA made a huge impact on my life. My FFA advisor, Tom Kremer, motivated me to pursue a proficiency award in agriculture electrification. Reluctantly, I completed the award, won state and received national accolades, but more importantly, I developed a passion for electrical trades which ultimately led to my interest and success in starting Wells Brothers, Inc . This is just one of many examples of how FFA prepares our young people for careers after graduation.”

Sr. Vice Provost of External Engagement, The Ohio State University

“Being a 4-H member and Junior Fair Board member in Shelby County remains one of the defining experiences of my life. Being a part of a supportive community where people cared about our experiences and success has served as the foundation for how I approach my work and volunteer roles today. Any success I have found at OSU is directly attributed to my 4-H and Junior Fair Board experience in Shelby County.”

Director of Nutrient Management & Agricultural Policy, OABA

“My family's multi-generational involvement in the Shelby County 4-H program is a testament to its importance to our county's youth. 4-H is part of the foundation of building strong leaders in Shelby County. 4-H is woven into the fabric of thousands of families just like mine and is critical to the success of future generations.”

Owner, McCracken Consulting

“Through 4-H and FFA, I developed a passion for telling the story of agriculture. This passion led me to start McCracken Consulting, an agricultural marketing agency that serves companies and organizations globally. Public speaking, networking and resilience are just a few of the many skills these programs taught me. There is no doubt the experiences I gained through 4-H and FFA helped me to start and scale my business.”

J.D., Faulkner, Garmhausen, Keister & Shenk

“As a recent graduate of law school, it is hard to conceptualize the impact 4-H and FFA has had on my life. Being highly involved in these organizations instilled work ethic, improved my public speaking skills and created job opportunities for me that would have been out of reach otherwise. There is no doubt in my mind that these two programs shaped me into the person I am today.”

Account Executive, Midan Marketing

“4-H provides the unique opportunity for young people to develop their passions into future career paths across diverse industries. I continue to be thankful for the Shelby County 4-H program for opening up the doors to my own career in agricultural marketing and communications.”

Owner, Fireheart Studios

“4-H has significantly impacted my career and life. I made many meaningful connections and friendships which gave way to internships, scholarships, clients, referrals and lifelong friends. From one photography project in my early years of 4-H, snowballed a passion in freelance photography which transformed into my dream creative business, Fireheart Studios.”