In food and agriculture, these moments happen unexpectedly and all too often. Once it starts, there’s no pause button. What leaders do in the first hours of a crisis often shapes trust, credibility and outcomes for years to come.

Agriculture Future of America (AFA) selected 12 college students from across the country to serve on the 2026 Student Advisory Team. They are dedicating a year to supporting their peers, creating safe environments and empowering industry growth to ensures AFA continues developing the kind of talent agriculture needs to thrive.

Jarrod Gillig proved his humanity when he found himself navigating one of the hardest decisions a leader can face: the shutdown of Cargill’s Plainview beef plant. Overnight, his role became telling thousands of people that their world was about to change.

The leaders who thrive are up to speed with the newest technology, industry trends and latest challenges. They’re the ones who are curious enough to ask better questions and truly understand the situation.

Learning how to navigate crucial conversations is a leadership superpower.

Authenticity isn’t just a buzzword. It’s what fuels trust, innovation and retention. Because when people feel accepted for who they are, they stop performing and start contributing.

A more sustainable future of agriculture will be shaped by systems thinking, collaboration and relationship development.

Great leaders build a bridge for future leaders and agriculturists. The Agriculture of America (AFA) Bridge Builder Award recognizes alumni committed to strengthening the future of food and agriculture through connection, collaboration and mentorship.

In a fast-evolving industry like agriculture where technology, sustainability and consumer demands are constantly reshaping the landscape, staying ahead of the curve isn’t just a bonus—it’s a necessity. For ag professionals, investing in intentional professional development is one of the smartest moves you can make for your career.

A masterclass in staying human when conversations get heated. A lesson rooted in listening, clarity of intent and a refusal to dehumanize the people on the other side of the conflict.

When most people dream of a career in agriculture, they picture tractors, barns and fields of corn. But as Dr. Michelle Schack reminds us, agriculture is more than plows and sows.

Organizational health is the balance between the smart and healthy sides of a company.

In a world of polarizing opinions, Krysta shares five tools to help young leaders build a more collaborative agricultural industry.

When Jerome (Jerry) Roell passed away on December 17, 2023, he left behind a profound legacy of leadership, mentorship and commitment to agriculture. Throughout his 38-year career with John Deere, Jerry was known as the “go-to” person—always there to help, mentor, and elevate his colleagues.

Career fairs can be overwhelming — rows of employer booths, tons of free swag, and recruiters everywhere! But they’re also packed with opportunities to kick-start your career and make connections that could define your future.

AFA Leaders Conference brings together students, alumni and industry professionals from all walks of life, and we’re committed to ensuring everyone feels respected, valued and empowered to contribute.

Are you ready to level up your ag career? AllianceX is back and better than ever, and registration is officially open! Mark your calendars for March 26-28, 2025, and get ready to join us in Fort Worth, Texas, for an unforgettable two-day experience that will inspire, empower, and prepare you for the next stage in your professional journey. 

In a fast-evolving industry like agriculture where technology, sustainability and consumer demands are constantly reshaping the landscape, staying ahead of the curve isn’t just a bonus—it’s a necessity. For ag professionals, investing in intentional professional development is one of the smartest moves you can make for your career.

High-achievers know leadership isn’t just about titles—it’s about how you show up every day. Whether you’re leading a student organization, excelling in academics, or setting yourself up for future success, it all starts with leading yourself first.

In combined commitment to strengthening the agriculture industry through leader development, American Farm Bureau Federation and Agriculture Future of America signed a Memorandum of Understanding January 8, 2023.

Nick Tarleton — Chicago native and McDonald’s Corporation employee — mentors students, helping them find their place in a food industry career

In partnership with Agriculture Future of America (AFA) and Murray State University, BASF recently announced the endowment of a scholarship in honor of former employee, Rocky Napier.

In partnership with Agriculture Future of America (AFA) and Murray State University, BASF recently announced the endowment of a scholarship in honor of former employee, Rocky Napier.

Agriculture Future of America (AFA) recently selected 40 college students from 29 states to serve as organizational Ambassadors, representing AFA on their respective campuses and throughout their networks to promote AFA opportunities, organize campus meetings and interact with industry professionals at various events on behalf of AFA.

AFA is proud to announce it has entered into multi-year partnerships with Cargill and Valent U.S.A, reinforcing AFA’s mission of developing the next generation of leaders for the food, agriculture and natural resources industries.