Trey Voeller’s journey from a high school FFA member to becoming one of 10 interns at the prestigious World Food Prize Foundation highlights his dedication to agricultural education and food science.
Voeller’s introduction to agriculture began at Prairie City-Monroe High School in Monroe, Iowa. As a sophomore, he wrote a research paper about the World Food Prize’s global challenge research program, focusing on the Republic of Niger. His research explored how strengthening agricultural education could improve community stability and government relations.
“It sparked my passion for food science and food insecurity,” he says.
Trey Voeller (far right) is one of many agriculturists who are passionate about contributing to the future of food.
Now, as an intern for a yearlong academic-based program with the World Food Prize Foundation, Voeller contributes to the foundation’s mission of fostering global food security and inspiring young leaders. He says the opportunity allows him to see how the foundation’s work impacts students, policymakers and scientists.
The Future of Food
In his role with the foundation’s Youth Programs and Partnerships team, Voeller coordinates events like the Global Youth Institute (GYI) and the Iowa Youth Institute, where students present their research on food insecurity.
This year, 171 students from 26 states and nine countries gathered in Des Moines, Iowa, where they presented innovative solutions to food challenges and gained exposure to global perspectives on food insecurity.
“You never know which of these students might be the next Dr. Norman Borlaug and how they might change the world,” Voeller says.
Voeller credits his mentor, Jon Wogman, for fostering a supportive team environment during his internship. “This has been the first opportunity where I had a mentor ask me what skills I want to develop, and how could this internship help me get those skills,” he says.
Applying Lessons From FFA
FFA not only sparked Voeller’s interest in food science; it also instilled a broader mission of community service and support. He says that “finding ways to serve others, love others and create a safe environment for others” has become a guiding principle in his work.
Now, Voeller helps create platforms for young people to voice solutions to pressing food challenges. “Youth perspective matters, and you aren’t too young to make a difference,” he says.
During his time as a Diamond Trail FFA member in Iowa, Voeller (far right) and his teammates competed in the National FFA Food Science and Technology Career Development Event.
Voeller will graduate with an associate degree in biology from Des Moines Area Community College in May 2025, then plans to transfer to Iowa State University for a bachelor’s degree in agricultural and rural policy studies and a secondary major in international agriculture.
For young people interested in food science, Voeller’s message is clear: Embrace opportunities, ask questions and believe in the power of youth-led initiatives.
“Agriculture is a very connected industry, and whether you see yourself going into agriculture or not, we can still all be advocates for the work of agriculture,” Voeller says. “You’re not too young and you’re not insignificant. You have ideas now that can be put into action.”
Thanks, Dr. Borlaug!
The World Food Prize was the idea of influential agronomist, humanitarian and leader Dr. Norman Borlaug. Explore his contributions to agriculture and learn more about the World Food Prize’s student-focused opportunities.
