Importance of Agriculture Education

Floor Speech

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Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the importance of agriculture education.

National Teach Ag Day is for anyone who wants to celebrate school- based agricultural education, share the story of agricultural education's importance and effectiveness in the United States, and encourage students to consider careers as agricultural educators.

This recognition of agriculture education is more important than ever. The average American farmer is around 57 years old, a statistic that underscores the urgent need for agriculture education.

Inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders is critical for our food security, and this encouragement begins in the classroom. As chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, I had the privilege of meeting with agriculture educators and students in Pennsylvania and throughout the country. Programs like Future Farmers of America and the 4-H strongly advocate advancing agriculture education and exposing our youth to the agricultural industry.

In July, I met with the Pennsylvania FFA State officers here in our Nation's Capital. We discussed many career opportunities in the agricultural field and the vital needs of a robust agricultural industry.

We interact with agriculture at least three times a day, and students must have the opportunity to learn about the industry and its career opportunities.

Madam Speaker, each one of us can play a role in advocating for agriculture education. Now more than ever, we must recognize that food security is national security, and a nation that cannot feed itself is a nation in turmoil.

As I mentioned earlier, we are at a critical point in our agricultural history. With the average age of our farmers hovering around 57 years old, it is essential that we develop the next generation of farmers.

To support the next generation of farmers, I included provisions in the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024 that bolster new and beginning farmers by increasing access to credit and crop insurance; supporting research, extension, and education activities; and improving program delivery at USDA.

As a senior member of the Committee on Education and the Workforce, the co-chair of the bipartisan Career and Technical Education Caucus, co-chair of the 4-H Caucus, and a proud member of the FFA Caucus, I am passionate about advancing agricultural education in our schools.

Teach Ag Day highlights the importance of agriculture education in our schools and communities. It is not just about learning how to farm. It is about understanding the science, technology, and business behind agriculture.

I thank all of our agricultural educators across the country and the Commonwealth and in the 15th Congressional District. Their dedication and hard work are the foundation of our agricultural future, and the guidance that they provide prepares the next generation of farmers, producers, and ranchers.

I always enjoy my meetings with FFA and 4-H students, and our conversations give me great hope in the direction of our agriculture community.

Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to, once again, thank all those involved in agricultural education and empowering our next generation of farmers.

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