Back in-person for 2022, the National Farm Machinery Show takes place next week, February 16 to 19. For many farmers and ranchers, this is their chance to see the new, cutting-edge technology all in one place. With 1.2 million square feet of space across three exhibition halls at the Kentucky Exposition Center, there is a lot to see and do. However, farmers and ranchers are not the only ones who will be there next week. FFA members also take this chance to explore the halls and see the new developments in agriculture.
The National Farm Machinery Show is the largest indoor ag farm trade show in the nation, with nearly 300,000 gathering every year to attend. This makes it the perfect spot for FFA chapters and their members. For FFA members, the NFMS provides many exciting resources. For example, the are opportunities for networking, career exploration, and you can’t forget about the tractor pull!
Read More: First-timer’s guide to the 2022 National Farm Machinery Show
With so many different companies under the same roof, it creates the perfect networking opportunity for FFA members. Soon, students will either be applying for colleges and selecting a major or getting ready to find a job. This is a great event to ask the employees working the booth what they majored in. You can also ask what classes they liked the most and any advice they have for you going forward.
In addition to asking about education resources, FFA members can get more information on career paths. A lot of the equipment vendors will be in need of recent trade school graduates. FFA members really stand out at the NFMS since the majority of attendees are farmers and ranchers. Students can use this opportunity to speak to companies and their employees about what they do. They are eager to share their passions with the future of the industry.
Lastly, the tractor pull is an all-time favorite for all attendees. The Championship Tractor Pull happens every evening in the Freedom Hall. The invitation-only event stars the nation’s best drivers and their machines — Pro Stocks, Super Stocks, Modified, and Alcohol Tractors as well as Two-Wheel and Four-Wheel-Drive Trucks. The Tractor Pull always brings in a crowd and entertainment is guaranteed.
Although the trade show is typically full of innovation and equipment, one booth will showcase the December 10 tornado damage. University of Kentucky Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering is using the opportunity to highlight the resiliency of Western Kentuckians who are continuing to deal with the aftermath of the tornados that ravaged much of the area. It will also feature information about ongoing needs for the area and ways people can donate.
Blue and Gold Auction
Not only does the trade show provide opportunities for FFA members, but also allows for companies to show their support for the organization. For example, BigIron Auctions partners with the National Farm Machinery Show to conduct a special auction benefiting the Kentucky FFA Foundation. Beginning in 2017, the Blue and Gold Auction raises funds for FFA chapters and their jacket scholarships program, camp scholarships, Capital Improvement Projects, and start-up costs for SAE Projects.
Things to do in Louisville
Many FFA chapters elect to make the trip to Louisville into a multiple-day event. Kentucky has many unique opportunities when it comes to the agriculture industry. When traveling to Louisville, consider stopping by one of the following:
- University of Kentucky College of Agriculture
- Kentucky State University Aquaponics Research Center
- Louisville Slugger Museum
- Churchill Downs
FFA members will travel near and far to the 2022 National Farm Machinery Show. From February 16 to 19, FFA members will have the opportunity to participate in many exciting events and make memories while attending the largest ag trade show.
