Sleepy Eye FFA Takes Second Ag Tour

On Tuesday, July 20th, 20 FFA members visited a variety of places in the Twin Cities in order to learn about each and the career opportunities within them. Paul Hendrickx and Alyssa Mitchell (Sleepy Eye FFA Advisors) and Meta Tewes (Summer Assistant) attended the tour as well.

The first stop of the tour was at Bakers Field Flour & Bread in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Students toured the facility and learned how regionally grown grains are stone-milled into fresh flour and baked into artisan bread. Students learned about the importance of sustainable agriculture, local food systems, and careers in baking, milling, and food science.

Next, the group traveled to NETZRO, a food tech company in Minneapolis focused on upcycling food byproducts into reusable ingredients. Students learned how spent grains, eggshells, and other waste materials are transformed into usable products for food, pet food, and cosmetics. The tour highlighted careers in sustainability, food science, and engineering.

The tour continued at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory in Saint Paul. Students explored a variety of animal exhibits, including gorillas, polar bears, giraffes, and tigers. They also were able to walk through the conservatory filled with tropical and seasonal plants. The experience offered a close-up look at wildlife from around the world and the importance of conservation. Students gained a better understanding of animal behavior and the habitats they live in.

The day ended with watching the St. Paul Saints, a minor league affiliate of the Minnesota Twins, play at CHS Field.

Each year, Sleepy Eye FFA conducts one-day tours in the summer with at least three educational stops. This is a fantastic way for our members to gain first-hand knowledge of different aspects of careers and explore the various career pathways. From innovative food technology to conservation efforts, the trip provided a range of career opportunities.