NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD-TV) — The National FFA Organization has welcomed a new member to its officer team, with Nebraska’s Claire Woeppel elected as Central Region Vice President. A member of the Chambers FFA Chapter, Woeppel is the first Nebraskan to hold a national FFA office since 2012.
Woeppel joined FFA Today to reflect on her path to the blue jacket and her goals for the year ahead. Raised on a cattle ranch, she brings firsthand agricultural experience along with prior leadership as a Nebraska state FFA officer and a passion for connecting with members across the country.
In an interview with RFD-TV News, Woeppel discussed how her FFA journey began and the experiences at both the chapter and state levels that prepared her for a national leadership role. She also offered a behind-the-scenes look at how the national officer team is already preparing for the year, from planning travel to outlining priorities for member engagement.
Woeppel discussed the initiatives and goals she hopes to focus on during her term, emphasizing the importance of inspiring members, building connections, and ensuring students see a place for themselves in agriculture and FFA. She also reflected on lessons learned throughout her FFA journey, encouraging students from small towns and rural communities to pursue leadership opportunities and believe in their potential.
Before wrapping up, Woeppel addressed concerns raised by the Oregon Agricultural Teachers Association Advocacy Committee about proposed budget cuts that could affect agricultural education and FFA programs in the state, offering words of encouragement to members and supporters.
Wayne Cockrell with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association joined us to discuss preparedness, producer awareness, and the industry’s response to New World screwworm concerns.
January 21, 2026 12:00 PM
·
President Donald Trump speaks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, addressing SNAP spending, tariff threats against Europe, market reactions, and the upcoming USMCA review.
January 21, 2026 11:50 AM
·
From meatpacking settlements to landmark NEPA rulings, Roger McEowen outlines the top legal developments in 2025 that will shape agriculture in the years ahead.
January 20, 2026 03:39 PM
·
Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation joined us to review new policies and regulations supporting the dairy industry and what they mean for the year ahead.
January 20, 2026 03:25 PM
·
Congressional leaders signal momentum toward expanded, targeted farm aid to help producers manage losses and cash-flow stress in 2026.
January 20, 2026 11:48 AM
·
New Resource Makes It Easier for People to Access Data on Rural Development funded Projects in Rural Communities
January 19, 2026 11:50 AM
In a landmark ruling delivered in late 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court significantly narrowed the scope of the National Environmental Policy Act.
January 19, 2026 11:25 AM
·
CoBank Knowledge Exchange’s Jeff Johnston shares the group’s positive perspective on expanding data centers into rural areas and weighs the risks and rewards for those communities.
January 16, 2026 01:44 PM
·
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer discusses how January’s WASDE report could impact ARC and PLC payments and updates on disaster relief programs as farmers navigate a challenging market environment.
January 16, 2026 01:34 PM
·
