CPPA Connects with Future California Leaders at State FFA Convention

The California Pork Producers Association (CPPA) attended the California State FFA

Convention last month, where our Junior Directors Charli Auldridge, Harlie Deschaine, Jenna Frietas and Weston Merriman represented California pork producers at the Career and Expo Show. Throughout the event, our team had the opportunity to connect with hundreds of California FFA members, sharing knowledge, building relationships, and highlighting opportunities within the pork industry.

One of the primary focuses was the importance of biosecurity and the role exhibitors play in protecting animal health. CPPA Junior Directors shared the National Pork Board’s Champion’s Guide to Swine Biosecurity with advisors and attendees, providing helpful resources and practical steps exhibitors can take to strengthen biosecurity practices within their own swine projects. This resource helped extend the conversation beyond the booth and provided students and advisors with tools they can implement at home and throughout the show season.

Students also learned about pork as a flavorful and nutritious protein, with Junior Directors discussing the versatility of pork, its role in a balanced diet, and how today’s producers are working to deliver a high-quality product to consumers. These conversations helped connect students’ livestock projects to the broader food system and the impact they have beyond the show ring.

In addition, CPPA representatives shared opportunities available through the association, including youth membership, leadership development, and involvement as future industry advocates. CPPA looks forward to welcoming new youth members who are passionate about the pork industry.

Celebrating CPPA Youth Success

In addition to connecting with students at the Career and Expo Show, CPPA was proud to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of our youth members recognized during the California State FFA Convention. These individuals continue to demonstrate leadership, dedication, and excellence within both FFA and the swine industry.

Gauge Goehring had an exceptional convention, earning multiple top honors:

·       State Star Small Farmer (also Central Region Winner)

·       Swine Production Entrepreneurship Proficiency Winner

·       Betty Bushong Memorial Scholarship Recipient

Riley Piehl also achieved tremendous success, being named:

·       State Star in Agriscience

·       State Agriscience Research – Animal Systems Proficiency Winner

·       4th Overall in Agriscience Fair – Animal Systems

·       California Almond Board Scholarship Recipient

Colt Mello was recognized for his research efforts as:

·       4th Overall in Agriscience Fair – Animal Systems Division 3

Several additional CPPA youth members were also recognized as finalists and regional winners:

• Carson Mendoza — Central Regional Swine Production Placement Proficiency Winner and State Finalist

• Lillie Benafield — Mabel Jacks Memorial Scholarship Finalist

  
  

These accomplishments reflect not only the hard work of these students, but also the strength of California’s swine industry and the future leaders being developed through youth organizations and programs.

CPPA congratulates all of our members who participated in the California State FFA Convention.  We are proud to support and celebrate your success and look forward to seeing what you accomplish next!