Teamwork, problem-solving key to South Dakota’s winning ffa ag mechanics team

By Lura Roti for South Dakota Farmers Union
Feb 19, 2024
Feb 19, 2024

FFA ag mechanics (1).jpg — Harrisburg FFA Ag Mechanics team won the state competition and went on to place 10th in the 2023 National FFA competition. Team members include Spencer Enstad, Erika Starr, Owen Murphy and Kendrick Droppers.
South Dakota Farmers Union photo

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By Lura Roti for South Dakota Farmers Union

A side conversation with her friend, Spencer Enstad, during English class introduced Erika Starr to the FFA ag mechanics competition.

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FFA ag mechanics (2).jpg — Harrisburg FFA Chapter President Erika Starr joined the ag mechanics team two years ago. “I didn’t have a clue about mechanics, but I thought I would have a blast learning about this stuff,” she said.
Watch video to learn Harrisburg FFA Chapter President Erika Starr’s philosophy on leadership.
Submitted photo

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FFA ag mechanics (3).jpg — Owen Murphy organized the Harrisburg FFA ag mechanics team his freshman year because when he joined FFA, the chapter did not have any members taking part in the competition.
Watch video to learn why Owen Murphy says ag will be in his future.
Submitted photo

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FFA ag mechanics (4).jpg — “I am more of a hands-on learner. I like tinkering with stuff,” said Spencer Enstad, who works construction in the summer monhts.
FFA taught Spencer Enstad about careers. Watch video to learn more.

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FFA ag mechanics (5).jpg — Reflecting on the team’s diverse talents, Kendrick Droppers said, “I learned to appreciate the people around me. Whether it was Owen, or Spencer or Erika or Mr. C – everyone brought something and at the end of the day. We would not have come this far without everyone trying their hardest and always coming to practice with 110%.”
Watch video to learn why Kendrick Droppers says it takes a team.
Submitted photo

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To hear more from these FFA members and their thoughts on their FFA experience, visit www.sdfu.org to watch videos. South Dakota Farmers Union website is also where you can learn about how the state’s largest agriculture organization works to support the next generation of family farmers, ranchers and their rural communities.