AEM is proud to support the National FFA Organization and all the ways it works to promote positive change, develop the next generation of leaders, and influence how the world grows.
With that said, the association recently chatted with Erica Baird, executive director of global sales and services at AEM member company Cummins, Inc. ahead of FFA Week. Baird discussed the value of FFA, its impact on the equipment manufacturing and ag industries, how it develops the leaders of tomorrow, and more.
AEM: Why do you think it’s so important for folks in our industry to be aware of FFA, its purpose and what it does to support people in the ag industry and beyond?
Baird: FFA is a critical player in the development of the future workforce of America. I participate because I am involved with AEM, alongside multiple ag company CEOs, and I know they went through FFA. At Cummins, we sell to the ag industry, so not only am I looking for the next generation of leaders at Cummins, I know I am mingling with future customers!
FFA also nurtures confidence, excellence, and critical leadership skills, as well as encourages young people to make a positive difference in the lives of others – all of these are critical traits that we look for when hiring at Cummins! In addition, with Cummins long-standing relationship in the ag industry, it’s critical that we understand the influences that FFA has on our current and future customers. Our No. 1 goal is to build meaningful relationships with customers and to help them succeed as their trusted business partner.
AEM: In what ways do you try and participate in FFA today?
Baird: I try to attend the Annual FFA Convention & Expo each year in Indianapolis. I live in Indy, and the buzz around downtown at that time is exhilarating. It’s great to see so many young people connecting and sharing a collective passion of the ag industry. It is also a great opportunity for me to mingle with our customers and learn the latest and greatest innovations and technology going on in the ag space.
AEM: What has you excited about the future of FFA? How do you plan to make the most out of your involvement with the organization?
Baird: There are many things that I am passionate about…One is reading the bible and there is a scripture that says (and I am paraphrasing), “do not let me get so rich that I think I don’t need you…nor so poor that I steal and shame your name.” This brings me to my second passion…Food security is national security. There have been numerous studies that have proven a direct correlation to food insecurity and crime. Most people do not realize how these two really go hand-in-hand. When food insecurity is present, the likelihood of crime rises tremendously. When you think about FFA and what the organization stands for - it plays such a significant role in addressing food security through education, innovation, and community engagement.
Another big area I am passionate about is policy advocacy. Every year, I go with my ag peers and advocate in Washington, D.C. for policies and technology that will truly benefit the ag industry. Young people are already using artificial intelligence (AI) and technology on a regular basis. FFA has the ability to harness this next generation, one which will be even further advanced in innovation and technology than the current generation due to their comfort with technology in the ag space.
AEM: When it comes to young people these days, everyone is looking for professional development and learn more about the opportunities available to them. With all that in mind, why do you feel it’s important for young people in ag to familiarize themselves and get involved with FFA?
Baird: I know when I am hiring, I look for individuals that have true, ‘hands-on’ experience – that goes a long way on a resume! FFA is a wonderful opportunity to start developing personal and professional growth before one even enters the workforce. Also, FFA provides value in the areas of:
- Leadership Development: FFA places a strong emphasis on developing leadership skills through workshops, conferences, and officer roles. These experiences prepare young people to be leaders in their communities and future workplaces.
- Career Exploration: FFA exposes members to a wide variety of career paths within agriculture, from farming and agri-science to agribusiness and ag technology. This helps young people discover and pursue careers aligned with their passions and skills.
- Technical and Soft Skills: Members gain hands-on experience with modern agricultural practices, equipment, and technologies, while also developing essential skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and public speaking—making them more competitive in the job market.
- Networking Opportunities: FFA offers access to a vast network of peers, mentors, industry leaders, and educators. Building these connections can lead to mentorship, job opportunities, and lifelong friendships.
- Confidence and Purpose: Through competitions, public speaking events, and leadership roles, FFA helps members gain self-confidence and find their purpose within agriculture and beyond.
AEM: Once young people do get involved with FFA, what from your own experiences in particular have you determined to be the key to get the most out of that experience with FFA and really make the most of that opportunity?
Baird: I’ve found throughout my career that the most success comes when you surround yourself with dedicated people working towards one common goal or passion. That is the beginning of teamwork and the motivation one needs to execute toward a shared vision. FFA offers so many opportunities to hone critical skills needed in today’s professional work environment. I would encourage those in FFA to lean in on any events that allow them to build their networks, excel in public speaking, and increase their ability to interact with people of all different backgrounds. I love how FFA encourages kids from all different backgrounds to get involved, strive to do great things with their lives, and deliver meaningful work.
Erica Baird is the executive director of global Sales and services at Cummins, a company that designs, manufactures, and distributes engines for a wide variety of machinery that powers the world. Erica is a leader in driving global business transformation, guiding top companies in the highly complex and regulated automotive, construction equipment, and mining industries to strategic functional and operational excellence. She oversees multi-billion-dollar P&Ls, spearheads profitable bottom-line revenue, and ensures value-added governance. For more information, visit www.cummins.com.
