The 2026 State FFA Convention took place in Lincoln Nebraska from March 25-March 27. There were many different events to compete in including welding, livestock judging, a talent show and much more. Seniors, Tyler Ourada and Bladen Rumbeck were finalists in welding. Junior, Cooper Freeze was a finalist in Natural Resources CDE (Career Development Event).
There were also tours around local agricultural businesses including AKRS Equipment and Titan Machinery. In addition, junior Jaxon Graham earned his state degree. This is a major achievement and means Jaxon has gone above and beyond as an FFA member at the state level.
Overall, the 2026 State Convention was a great experience for everyone who participated, and congratulations to everyone who competed, and those who earned top placement, awards, and recognition for their achievements.
Written by Jackson Day
Top Results:
Welding
Team - 5th Place
ARC - Tyler Ourada, 9th Place
MIG - Bladen Rumbeck, 8th Place
OA - Wyatt DeWeese, Blue Ribbon
TIG - Aiden Smolik, Red RibbonNatural Resources
Team - 11th Place
Cooper Freeze - 9th Place
Mason Trampe - Blue Ribbon
Jaxon Graham - Red Ribbon
Breckyn Veskerna - White RibbonMeats Judging
Kaitlyn Meints - Blue Ribbon
Livestock Judging
Kaitlyn Meints - Purple RibbonFloriculture
Breckyn Veskerna - Red RibbonState Degree Recipient
Jaxon GrahamAg Demo Team
Haydon Mattox & Mitchell Sheldon - Bronze MedalAg Literacy Speaking
Gretchen Knajdl - Silver MedalCooperative Speaking
Kaitlyn Meints