Braxton Watts, El Dorado Springs

VICE-PRESIDENT 2025-26

My Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs) reflect a broad range of skills and passions within the agricultural industry. As a MyFFAExperience national intern, I promote the diverse stories of FFA members through digital content and social media, sharing FFA from a member’s perspective. Through Ag Ed on the Move, I teach fourth and fifth grade students about agriculture with interactive STEM-based lessons and help lead educational booths at fairs and safety events. I also work year-round at Outlaw Farms, assisting with livestock care, fencing and hay production. During the summer, I work at Wosoba Fescue Seed Buying Station, where I help unload seed trucks, clean and process fescue seed, operate equipment and assist customers throughout the busy harvest season. I also show market Shropshire lambs, and I manage a small beef cattle herd throughout the year.

After attending FFA Camp the summer before my freshman year, I was bound and determined to take every opportunity FFA had to offer. That experience gave me a glimpse into what FFA is: the competitive contests, the passionate members and the deep love for the blue jacket. Just like I stepped out of my comfort zone at Camp to try something new, I want to help create those same opportunities for the members who make this organization extraordinary. Over the past four years, I have faced challenges through FFA that have shaped me into the person I am today. From my very first contest to my last, each one has introduced me to new friends, deepened my understanding of the agricultural industry and strengthened my leadership and communication skills. I am incredibly grateful for the people who have supported me throughout this journey, and now it’s my turn to give back. I have learned that FFA is more than an organization; it’s home, it’s family. As a Missouri FFA State Officer, I hope to inspire, encourage and genuinely support those around me every step of the way.

No matter if I am referred to as the “ginger” from the state officer team, I hope to be remembered as someone who made others feel seen, valued and supported. I want my legacy to be sincere. I want to be someone who showed up with a servant’s heart and gave their all to every member, every handshake and every chapter visit. If I can inspire just one member to step out of their comfort zone and believe in their potential, then I’ll know I’ve done my job. Missouri FFA has shaped me into who I am, and now I want to help shape the next generation of leaders, dreamers and changemakers.

I will be attending the University of Central Missouri (UCM) to obtain a Biology – Conservation Enforcement degree. I intend to earn my bachelor’s degree at UCM and apply for the Missouri Department of Conservation’s Agent Academy to become a Conservation Agent in Missouri, protecting our state’s natural resources. My goal is to combine my love for the outdoors with my passion for public service, educating others and preserving Missouri’s wildlife and public lands for future generations. I also plan to stay involved in agricultural education and youth outreach, continuing to give back to the programs that have shaped who I am.

I am a volunteer firefighter! I actively serve with the Olympia Rural Fire Department in southwest Missouri. The Department was founded in 1981 by a few local farmers and my papa Watts after the Missouri Department of Conservation reached out to the community. My papa was elected as the first fire chief and served until his passing in 2022. My dad was elected in his place and continues to bring life and leadership to our small, rural department. Volunteering there has taught me the value of selfless service and being present when others need you, lessons that reflect what FFA has taught me about leadership and community as well.

My piece of advice to FFA members is to take every opportunity presented to you. Do that contest, go on that trip, talk to that person; don’t create regrets for later.