KANSAS CITY, MO. — November 13, 2025 — The National FFA Organization has officially endorsed the National Agriculture Challenge (NAC), held during the Western Farm Show on February 20, 2026, marking a major milestone for this growing national competition that unites students, educators, and industry leaders across the agricultural community.
The endorsement from the National FFA recognizes the National Agriculture Challenge as an event that supports FFA’s mission to prepare future leaders in agriculture through hands-on learning, technical education, and real-world application. Hosted by the North American Equipment Dealers Association (NAEDA), the Challenge features competitive events through written exams, component identification, and locating issues in agricultural equipment, offering students an interactive platform to demonstrate their skills and career readiness.
“We’re honored to receive this endorsement from the National FFA,” said Jami Applegate, Director of Farm Shows of NAEDA. “It affirms our commitment to developing educational opportunities that inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders and highlight the career paths available across our industry.”
The National Agriculture Challenge will take place in the Western Farm Show’s Upper-Level Exhibition Hall, giving attendees a front-row view of student excellence and innovation in agriculture. With thousands of regional FFA students expected to participate or attend, the 2026 event represents a dynamic fusion of education, competition, and community engagement within one of the Midwest’s premier agricultural trade shows.
“This partnership with the National FFA strengthens our shared vision of promoting leadership, technical skills, and agricultural literacy,” said Jami Applegate. “The Challenge is not only a competition, it’s a celebration of agriculture’s future.”
The Western Farm Show, held annually at the American Royal Complex in Kansas City, attracts over 400 exhibitors and tens of thousands of attendees. The addition of the National Agriculture Challenge, now nationally endorsed, continues to position the show as a leading destination for agricultural education and innovation.
About NAEDA
The North American Equipment Dealers Association (NAEDA) represents equipment dealers across North America, advocating for their interests and supporting workforce development, education, and industry growth.
About National FFA Organization
The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,042,245 student members as part of 9,407 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. For more, visit the National FFA Organization online at FFA.org and on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
About the Western Farm Show
Celebrating decades of agricultural excellence, the Western Farm Show is one of the Midwest’s largest indoor farm shows, featuring the latest in equipment, technology, and education for producers and ag professionals.
If you are interested in more information, contact Jami Applegate
Media Contact:
Jami Applegate
Director of Farm Shows
(816) 412-6118
