New Caney High School Future Farmers of America (FFA) President, Cade Thomas, found interest in livestock in third grade. Interest turned into passion and Cade has raised over 20 pigs, 6 sheep and 11 steers throughout his FFA tenure. With a bedroom full of banners, trophies, plaques, ribbons, and over 20 buckles to display his success, Cade has had incredible success including having two steers sold at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
FFA teaches students lifelong values such as accountability, responsibility, patience, resourcefulness, and what Cade feels is the most important, the art of losing gracefully. Students learn time management as raising livestock can come with daily routines of up to 5 hours in the barn, where they gain perspective on agricultural processes and impacts to the economy, including how much time and money go into the food we eat.
Through the National FFA Organization’s mission of “learning to do, doing to learn, earning to live, and living to serve,” the New Caney High School (NCHS) FFA chapter has focused on contributing to society by giving back to the community through various fundraising efforts while working to restore community landmarks.
Cade believes that family is the most important puzzle piece to his FFA journey, as they have supported, helped, and provided for his passion which he plans to further pursue with aspirations of working on a wildlife ranch as a ranch manager. He has worked with families to provide support with their steers. His knowledge of feed, anatomy, and nutrition, alongside his experience with daily care, such as checking vitals and giving shots, make him an excellent coach for families who are taking their first steps in wildlife management.
If raising wildlife doesn’t spark interest, there are many other avenues of FFA to explore, including environmental science, floriculture, landscaping, and mechanics. Many FFA students have gone on to explore careers as veterinarians, chemists, international business owners, engineers, government officials and even teaching the next generation of FFA students. Cade believes FFA creates strong and mature minds, that will not only make an impact in society, but it will also help you make some great friends along the way.
Cade believes that family is the most important puzzle piece to his FFA journey