When it comes to the people affiliated with FFA, developing lifelong friendships is not uncommon.
The strong bond Chuck Benson and Alan Johnson have formed over the past five years is a perfect example.
Johnson was serving as 2017-18 North Carolina FFA president when he met Benson, a former Illinois FFA officer in the 1980s. Johnson and Benson hit it off immediately, and the two shared common interests and goals.
“FFA teaches students how to professionally network and to not be afraid to inquire about career opportunities or ask for support,” said Benson, who works in market strategy for BASF Agricultural Solutions North America in Research Triangle Park, N.C.
After the visit to BASF, Johnson stayed in regular contact with Benson, eventually learning about a sales and marketing internship opportunity at BASF.
Johnson earned that internship. Benson, who’s worked for BASF for more than 30 years, took Johnson under his wing, serving as his mentor and providing a mix of personal and professional advice to help him succeed.
“An FFA mentor is like a wise owl for a student,” said Johnson. “Mentors provide great professional and personal advice in a caring manner.”
Benson truly did care about Johnson as well as his bright future in agriculture.
Benson told Johnson about BASF’s Professional Development Program, which provides young professionals with 18 months of on-the-job training and helps determine where they best fit within the organization.
Based on Benson’s recommendation, Johnson was hired into the program 10 months ago, after studying agriculture at the University of Mount Olive in North Carolina.
Now, Benson and Johnson work alongside one another at BASF, serving an industry they both care about deeply thanks, in large part, to FFA and the bond the organization ignited.
FFA is focused on growing the next generation of leaders who’ll change the world. The organization prepares its young members for leadership and careers in the science, business, and technology of agriculture.
Benson and Johnson have both spent more than half of their lives involved with FFA. Johnson is already starting his role as a valued mentor for other aspiring agricultural professionals.
BASF supports FFA as well as employees who wish to continue involvement with FFA well into their professional careers.
FFA inspires young generations to lead innovative and cultivating careers across so many industries and strengthens the crop of agricultural professionals across our nation.
Benson and Johnson’s relationship is living proof.
Carrie Gray is Community Relations Manager for BASF Agricultural Solutions North America in Research Triangle Park, N.C.
