The new year marks a season of opportunity for the Davie County FFA Chapter in North Carolina, as students at Davie County High School are kicking their competition preparations into high gear.
Building on their exceptional performance at regionals, several teams within the chapter have dedicated countless hours of practice to sharpening their skills and boosting their competitive edge for upcoming National FFA Career Development Events (CDEs). Chapter members are also taking the lead in various projects on their high school’s campus and throughout the community.
Some of the chapter’s teams and individuals have already shown considerable promise. In November 2024, the Agricultural Mechanics CDE team (pictured below) secured a second place finish in the region, earning them a spot to compete at the North Carolina FFA state competition in June 2025.
Members of the Davie County FFA Agricultural Mechanics CDE team include Matthew Ramsey (far left) Lochan Holcomb (left center), Cole Anders (right center) and Ty Anderson (far right).
This event challenged members to exhibit their technical skills and problem-solving abilities while displaying teamwork. Their skills in managing agricultural machinery, electrical wiring, mechanical systems and welding were tested through a series of questions and procedures.
Cole Anders, the chapter’s senior sentinel, placed third individually at the competition. When suggesting members for the team, Anders proposed those passionate about this field, saying it would ensure “energy and commitment” when preparing for the event. “We felt a big sense of accomplishment,” he adds. “All of those hours of practice had paid off, and we had our tickets to states!”
After celebrating their team’s achievements, members continue to prepare with a renewed focus and strengthened sense of determination to hone their agricultural mechanic skills.
Davie County FFA members continue to shine as leaders, managing an impressive lineup of projects throughout the high school campus. Recently, the chapter hosted an aluminum can drive to support the school’s National Technical Honors Society (NTHS) chapter. Throughout the past several months, students, staff and community members contributed to the drive by collecting more than 580 pounds (equivalent to $475 worth) of recycled cans that will used to pay NTHS dues.
Additionally, FFA members seized the exciting opportunity to roll up their sleeves and play a hands-on role in building an extension to their barn, showcasing teamwork and a continued dedication to serving their chapter and community.
Davie County FFA member Nathan Harris works on the barn’s extension.
Last summer, with the help of their intern Nathan Harris, the chapter began expanding the barn’s dimensions to provide additional space for the various species of livestock — including pigs, sheep and dairy heifers — it houses each year.
This year, the chapter’s leaders and alumni navigated collaborations with companies like Lowe’s to fund and supply the agricultural education program at the high school. With these donations, the chapter intends to continue expansion to the west wing of its barn.
The approach of spring means an expected busy schedule for Davie County FFA members. Nevertheless, they continue to rise to the challenge, combining their preparation for competitions with the power of teamwork and desire to lead the charge in community service projects that leave a lasting impact.
