Several students from the Union Springs High School Agriculture program and FFA chapter had the opportunity to explore the future of agriculture during the Food Systems Career Day at Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES on Thursday, March 12.

Throughout the day, students participated in engaging discussions focused on the evolving food system and the many career pathways connected to it. Industry professionals shared insights about emerging opportunities, including internships and apprenticeships, while also encouraging students to consider how they can begin contributing to the food system while still in high school.

The event also highlighted the impressive work of Union Springs FFA members who were invited to present on a research project they helped conduct last summer. Avery Koch (FFA Secretary) and Troy Gardner (FFA Reporter) joined Kirsten Workman of Cornell Pro-Dairy to discuss a study examining the impact of biochar as a fertilizer on crop fields.

The research was conducted in partnership with Growing Hope Cayuga, the organization that hosted the career day. Thanks to the successful harvest from the field used in the project, the Union Springs FFA chapter received funds generated from the crop production.

During Thursday’s event, the students proudly presented a $5,000 check from those funds to Growing Hope Global, which supports agricultural initiatives around the world. The chapter will work together to determine which global agriculture project the donation will support, helping extend the impact of their work far beyond their local community.

Agriculture Teacher and FFA Advisor Alyssa Roorda said the experience was meaningful for students both academically and personally.

“This opportunity allowed our students to see how their classroom learning and hands-on research can connect to real-world challenges in agriculture,” Roorda said. “It was incredibly rewarding to watch them share their work and realize the impact they can make both locally and globally.”