Effingham County High School Future Farmers of America member Jesse Edwards recently placed first in the Area IV FFA Agricultural Tractor and Machinery Safety, Operations and Maintenance Career Development Event. The event was held at Metter High School on Sept. 8.

Edwards competed against 20 other students from schools in the area. This first-place finish qualifies Edwards to compete in the State CDE in October at the Georgia National Fair.

The Agricultural Tractor and Machinery Safety, Operations and Maintenance Career Development Event allows students to demonstrate the skills necessary to safely and efficiently operate a tractor. Participants in the event take a written exam and answer problem solving questions related to tractor servicing, safe operation, care and maintenance. Participants also drive a tractor and are tested on tractor operations.

FFA is a national organization of over 449,000 members preparing for leadership and careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture.

FFA is an integral part of the agricultural education program in public schools. 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.

Edwards, a junior, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Marty Edwards of Springfield. Dr. Freddie Waltz, C. J. Satterfield, and Meredith Carey are Effingham County High School FFA advisors.

The FFA Agricultural Tractor and Machinery Operations and Maintenance Career Development Event is sponsored by the Georgia FFA Foundation.