Tennessee FFA Convention Draws Thousands of Students to Gatlinburg

State leaders say the program continues to build the next generation of farmers and producers

GATLINBURG, TENN. (RFD News) — Tennessee FFA students gathered in Gatlinburg at the end of March for the state’s annual convention, showcasing their passion for agriculture and leadership.

The event brought together students from across the state, along with leaders from the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, as the organization continues to grow.

FFA State Director Ryan Inman says the program now includes more than 30,000 members across 265 chapters statewide, spanning West, Middle and East Tennessee.

“We are an association of over 30,000 members across the state,” Inman said. “It’s vital to the industry because not only is it creating the next generation of leaders and more well-informed consumers, but it’s also creating our next generation of producers.”

Tennessee Agriculture Commissioner Andy Holt also attended the convention and reflected on how his own experience in FFA continues to shape his career.

“I think back about my time in FFA as a high school student,” Holt said. “I think about the skills that I gained that are applicable to my everyday life, even today as commissioner.”

Next year will mark the 99th annual Tennessee State FFA Convention.

Related Stories
State President Riley Farris reflects on a year of service as thousands of members prepare to gather in Fort Worth.
Utah Congresswoman Celeste Maloy shares how agriculture and rural issues have shaped her career from high school FFA to Congress at RFD-TV’s recent Rural Town Hall.
Students are gaining hands-on experience with hydroponics through Feagin Mill Middle School’s growing ag program.
Page Sierens says the new position will help Illinois FFA connect with and serve more members across the state.
The West Ouachita High School student will take his small engine repair SAE to the National FFA Convention this fall.
Illinois FFA State Vice President Koben Tate reflects on a year of service and the relationships that shaped it.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Huma says growers are placing greater emphasis on intensive management as soybean production continues to evolve
The mobile bar, or “ComBar,” is built from a real combine harvester and celebrates the farmers behind beer made with U.S.-grown ingredients.
Higher production costs remain a challenge, but growers say recent H-2A changes provide some labor relief.
Wyatt Bolding’s perseverance has earned him a spot as one of three finalists for Louisiana Farm Bureau’s 2026 Achievement Award.
Nebraska Soybean Board Vice Chairman Greg Anderson says expanding biodiesel production is creating new opportunities for soybean growers and adding value closer to the farm.
As weather reduced this year’s crop, USDA also highlighted George Washington’s cherry legacy ahead of America 250.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Opry Live is the premier weekly broadcast and livestream of the Grand Ole Opry, featuring country music superstars, legends, and rising talent performing on stage in Nashville.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.