Structure

The FFA operates on local, state and national levels. Student members belong to chapters organized at the local level. Agricultural education instructors serve as chapter advisors.

Tennessee chapters are organized under the state association headed by a state advisor and other state staff members. The state association conducts programs and hosts an annual convention run by the state officer team.

The Tennessee FFA Association charters new chapters, provides direction, delivers programmatic materials and support, and hosts the State FFA Convention which draws approximately 6,000 attendees each spring.

Applied Learning

The agricultural education program provides a well-rounded, practical approach to learning through three components:

• Classroom education in agricultural and natural resource topics (such as plant and animal sciences, horticulture, forestry, etc.)
• Hands-on Supervised Agricultural Experiences (such as starting a business or working for an established company)
• FFA, which provides leadership opportunities and develops and evaluates students’ agricultural skills

Programs and Activities

FFA’s local, state and national programs and activities help members develop public speaking skills, conduct and participate in meetings, manage financial matters, strengthen problem-solving abilities and assume civic responsibility. The three divisions of a Program of Activities are Growing Leaders, Strengthening Agriculture, and Building Communities. Degrees earned at local, state and national levels recognize members’ accomplishments. 

Competitive events and award programs in areas such as public speaking, commodity marketing and agriscience recognize student achievement and encourage them to excel beyond the classroom while developing career skills.

Community service programs offered through FFA also help students contribute to society.