Star Valley FFA hosted an Agriculture Mechanics competition in the middle of January at Star Valley High School which also involved members from FFA chapters in Farson, Evanston, Cokeville and Montpelier. Members who are working on their Agriculture Mechanics CDE (Career Development Events) demonstrated their knowledge and skill through written and practical examination.

SV FFA members who participated were Andrew Hoopes, Jakub Norman, Diesel Vrska, Hudson England, Haydin Draney, Aiden Linford, Daniel Nelson, Colton Messerly and Tayvon Zarate. Local businesses and industry leaders served as sponsors and were on hand to evaluate student performance.

“This was a great experience for our students and other schools,” said Bridget Frank, who serves as Assistant Advisor to the SV FFA.  “The community members were a great help with the event.”

Haydin Draney placed High Overall with the highest combined score from all events. Event winners at the competition include:

Porter Wool, Cokeville, High Welding

Andrew Hoopes, Star Valley, High Compact Equipment

Daniel Nelson, Star Valley, High Multimeter, Bolt ID and Parts ID

Hudson England, Star Valley, High Electrical

Dylan Wells, Montpelier, High Electrical

Haydin Draney, Star Valley, High Written Exam

Victor Hardesty, who serves as the SV FFA Advisor and SVHS Ag Teacher, expressed appreciation for all local supporters of the competition. Valley Auto Supply and Tractor Supply donated prizes to the winners. Jake Long and Son provided support with the Compact Equipment event. Eric Loveland judged the Welding. Colten Tholen assisted with Residential Electrical. Dallas Warren supported in Parts ID, and Dan Barnes provided expertise for the Automotive Electrical Unit. Member volunteers from SV FFA helped with the flow of the competition and directing students to their proper event areas.

Afton businesses that sponsored the event include Valley Auto, Tractor Supply, Jake Long and Son, Circle H, and CKT Custom Homes.

“It was a great event, and we hope to be able to continue building on the competition and hosting in the future,” said Hardesty. “Thanks to Evanston, Cokeville, Farson, and Montpelier schools and advisors for showing up and competing.”