FFA Convention Highlights: TechKnowledge in Action
Grit, Gears, and Great Conversations: Our Week at the FFA National Convention
The 97th National FFA Convention was one for the books. Our Platte Valley Equipment team spent the week surrounded by bright blue jackets, endless energy, and students who share a passion for agriculture and mechanics all walking away knowing more about our TechKnowledge Diesel Technology Program.
We were there to talk about the TechKnowledge Diesel Technology Program at Lake Area Technical College (LATC) in Watertown, South Dakota. It didn’t take long before our booth became a popular stop on the convention floor.
A Little Competition and a Lot of Fun
We wanted to do something different this year — something hands-on. So, we set up a challenge: two minutes on the clock, a bin full of bird seed, and a goal to find five nuts and bolts of any mix. Then, students had to thread them correctly onto a thread checker before time ran out.
It sounded simple, but it wasn’t.
The laughter and friendly competition drew a crowd. Students dug in, trying to beat the clock. A few even finished early and earned a spin on our prize wheel, where items from lanyards to hats were waiting.
It was a fun icebreaker — and a great reminder that real learning often happens through hands-on problem-solving.
What TechKnowledge Is All About
When students asked, “So, what’s TechKnowledge?” we loved explaining it.
The TechKnowledge Diesel Technology Program is a partnership between LATC and our family of dealerships, including Platte Valley Equipment, Kibble Equipment, and Valley Plains Equipment. If you’re brought on, tuition and tools are paid for up front. The program also includes paid internships, so students earn while they learn.
Each student spends time both in the classroom and in the shop at one of our dealerships, building the skills and confidence needed for a successful career.
By graduation, they’re ready to step right into the industry — supporting local producers and keeping the ag world moving forward.
Meeting People from All Over
Throughout the week, we met students from South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, and North Dakota — and many others from across the country. We also connected with advisors, teachers, and chaperones who were eager to learn more about the TechKnowledge Diesel Technology Program.
When they heard that our dealerships help students cover tuition and tools up front, offer paid internships, and provide experience with the latest John Deere technology, their reactions said it all. Many were amazed by the opportunities available through the program.
We met students who love working with their hands and others just beginning to explore what’s next after high school. Every conversation reminded us why this work matters — to help young people find meaningful, hands-on careers doing what they enjoy.
Discovery Days: Taking the Next Step
Many of those conversations led to sign-ups for Discovery Days at LATC. The event pairs high school students with current TechKnowledge students so they can shadow for a day and experience the program in action.
They’ll attend classes, explore the labs, meet instructors, and see how the TechKnowledge Diesel Technology Program blends learning with real-world skills. It’s more than a visit — it’s a sneak peek into their future.
Wrapping Up an Amazing Week
By the end of the convention, our Platte Valley team was tired but inspired. We’d met so many motivated students, shared plenty of laughs, and talked with future technicians who are excited about where the ag industry is heading.
Whether they came to try the bird seed challenge, spin the wheel, or just talk shop, we’re grateful for every one of them.
To everyone who stopped by to learn about the TechKnowledge Diesel Technology Program — thank you. You made our week at Nationals one to remember.
Until next time, keep learning, keep exploring, and remember — your future might just start closer to home than you think.
