I hope you’re doing well! I wanted to share a brief update from the National FFA Convention, and what a remarkable week it was.
We had a very successful year promoting careers in trucking to 70,000+ students, and one trend truly stood out: more students than ever expressed interest in becoming professional drivers. The interest in CDL pathways and trucking careers was a noticeable and exciting shift from prior years. Students were engaged, curious, and asking all the right questions.
This growing enthusiasm reinforces what we are seeing nationally, students are increasingly seeking career-ready pathways directly after high school or through technical training programs. This is a big moment for our industry. Now is the time to lean in and support this next generation as they explore rewarding careers in trucking and logistics.
We also gained incredible exposure with coverage on two local news stations, highlighting the importance of engaging young talent in our industry:
Fox59 Coverage
https://fox59.com/video/future-farmers-of-america-ffa-convention-kicks-off-in-downtown-indy/11213990/
Time markers: 0:52 and 1:31
WTHR Coverage
https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/us-secretary-of-agriculture-speaks-at-national-ffa-convention-addresses-snap-funding-brooke-rollins-students/531-0f03cfce-ce41-40fc-b045-c50be589ccff#
Time markers: 1:48 – 2:13
A huge thank-you to Marvin Johnson for bringing their Driving Simulator, with hour-long wait times most days, and to Transfr for bringing VR headsets that allowed students to virtually change the oil in a truck. In addition, a big thank-you to XPO for bringing a day cab, allowing students to climb inside and experience the driver’s seat firsthand, another huge hit that sparked excitement and countless questions!
These hands-on experiences created incredible excitement and engagement.
We are also grateful for the support and volunteer time from NTTC, Grammer Logistics, Usher Transport, G&D Trucking/Hoffman Transportation, the IMTA, and Sean Horton.
Your presence and passion for inspiring future trucking talent made a tremendous impact.
Thank you all for helping us continue to build the next generation of the trucking workforce. The momentum is real, and together, we’re making a difference.
With appreciation,
Lindsey Trent
President & Co-Founder
Next Generation in Trucking Association