Growing Our Future

The National FFA Organization works to strengthen science and agricultural educational opportunities for students across the country. The Texas FFA Association and Texas FFA Foundation are the largest state organizations in the country.

In this Growing Our Future Podcast episode, Aaron Alejandro introduces Steve Mosley, President of the Past State Officers Organization (PSOs) and Barbie Mosley, Vice President of the Past State Officers Organization (PSOs). Steve and Barbie shared their experiences as past state officers and about the organization. They also share their amazing story of serving people and giving back.

Story Notes:

🎙️ Passion for Service

🎙️ Amazing Journey

🎙️ It Takes Time

🎙️ Serving People and Giving Back

🎙️ Reigniting Passion

🎙️ Philanthropy is the Giving of Time, Talents, or Treasure

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

The National FFA Organization works to strengthen science and agricultural educational opportunities for students across the country.  The Texas FFA Association and Texas FFA Foundation are the largest state organizations in the country.

On this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, Aaron Alejandro introduces Jennifer Jackson, Executive Director at Texas FFA Association. The National FFA Organization is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

Story Notes:

🎙️ Jennifer Jackson Story
🎙️ Largest State FFA Association
🎙️ Accomplishment
🎙️ Accountability
🎙️ Challenges

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

On this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, Aaron Alejandro introduces Les Hudson, Statewide CTE Coordinator at Texas Education Agency. The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

Story Notes:

🎙️ Empower Minds
🎙️ Career Technical Education (CTE)
🎙️ Career "AND" College Ready
🎙️ Operate with Transparency

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

On this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, Aaron Alejandro introduces Ray Pieniazek, Executive Director of the Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas, an organization devoted to supporting teachers through professional development opportunities, mentorship, and legal guidance.  Drawing on his decades of experience with agricultural education , Pieniazek gives listeners a rare look at the demanding and rewarding reality of ag teachers across the country.

Story Notes:

• A Day in the Life
• Supporting Unique Educators
• Investing in Teachers and Students

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

On this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, Aaron Alejandro introduces John Howley, Director of Communications for Montana State University Extension. Born and raised in Texas, Howley's experience as a county Extension agent and a farm to school specialist in Utah, Indiana, and Montana gives him a unique perspective on agriculture and communication.

Story Notes:

• Extension: Forging Connections
•  Support from FFA
•  "Mind-blowing" Opportunities in Agriculture

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

On this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, Aaron Alejandro introduces Lora Gonzalez Eckerle, Business Development Manager for Central Market. From the Rio Grande Valley to New York City and beyond, Eckerle has built a varied and dynamic career in Agriculture. Her success as a state FFA officer and branding and merchandising specialist for companies like Purina and Central Market stems from the skills she developed through agricultural science education and FFA leadership development opportunities.

Story Notes:

• The Future of Food
• Making Moves
• "You Don't Have to Know it All"

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

On this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, Aaron Alejandro introduces Dr. Gordon Davis, Chairman of CEV Multimedia and longtime agricultural educator.  After decades as an FFA member, coach, and professor, Davis saw a need--to bring technology into the agricultural sciences classroom--and founded what would become a multi-million-dollar company. His story will inspire listeners to go after what they love, and ask for help along the way.  

Story Notes:

• Opportunity Knocks
• Bringing Tech to the Classroom
• "Get on the Team"

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

On this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, Aaron Alejandro introduces Benita Hodge, Survey Administrator at the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), a part of the  United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and first female African American to earn the prestigious American FFA Degree.  Her continued work with FFA helps students and teachers understand the wide range of careers in agriculture, and inspires future leaders to go after what they love.

Story Notes:

• "A Place For Everyone"
• Making History
•  A Message for Future Leaders

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

On this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, Aaron Alejandro introduces Adam Torres, co-founder of Mission Matters, a media company and podcast platform focused on championing mission-driven leaders across the world. Torres has produced over 40,000 pieces of content in the last five years, estimating he has spoken to over a thousand CEOs. His work has given him a valuable perspective on leadership, success, and the future of business.

Story Notes:

• "Under the Hood" at Mission Matters
• An Unconventional Path 
• Finding Ways to Grow

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

On this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, Aaron Alejandro introduces Madeline Barber, an FFA officer from Boerne, Texas. A well-rounded student and successful member of her school's chapter, Barber shares her story of donating money to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. 

Story Notes:

• Firm Foundations
• A Heart of Giving
• Kindness Makes A Lasting Impression

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org