Nearly 300 members of the National FFA Organization from Carroll, Haralson, Heard, Paulding and Troup county high schools were seen on Carroll Electric Membership Cooperative’s (EMC) campus Wednesday, March 6, for the co-op’s eighth annual FFA Day. Students attended sessions from morning through lunch to hear from professionals in agriculture-related industries.
With a rich history of rural development, Carroll EMC prides itself on its agricultural roots and present-day support for the state’s economic driver. In addition to its biannual agribusiness seminars, FFA Day has been a way for the electric cooperative to demonstrate that continued support. The small-scale expo encourages high schoolers to explore the many trades associated with agriculture, whether directly or indirectly, and gives them the opportunity to participate in demonstrations and ask questions.
Invited to this year’s event were representatives from the Georgia Forestry Commission, University of Georgia and West Georgia Technical College. Students endured the rainy morning to learn about forest management, fire prevention, calving techniques and welding. They also watched Carroll EMC linemen demonstrate high-voltage safety and pole top/hurtman rescue.
“Over the years, we’ve had a wide range of guests that take time out of their busy workdays to spend a few hours with the students,” said Brittany Shadix, Carroll EMC’s Communications Specialist and coordinator for FFA Day. “We are so appreciative of their participation. Even if just a few students out of a hundred spark an interest in a certain field, it was worth all the effort.”
Carroll EMC is a Member-owned cooperative providing electricity to approximately 54,000 homes and businesses. The co-op serves Members in Carroll, Haralson, Heard, Paulding, Polk, Floyd and Troup counties. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. For more information visit the cooperative’s website at carrollemc.com or follow Carroll EMC on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X and YouTube. Carroll EMC: Community Built. Community Builder.
