Celebrating National FFA Week: The FARM at UACCB showcases hands-on training for future farmers

UACCB Farm Manager Bryan Anderson

As communities across the country celebrate National FFA Week (February 21–28, 2026), the focus remains on agricultural education and preparing the next generation of leaders in farming, ranching, and agribusiness. In Arkansas, where agriculture is one of the state’s leading industries, FFA continues to play a vital role in shaping students’ futures.

The University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) is building on that foundation through their hands-on Farm and Ranch Management (FARM) program.

Bryan Anderson, FARM Manager at UACCB, says the program is designed for students who want to take their FFA experience and expand it into career-ready training.

“It’s a great opportunity for youngsters who want to learn about a farm trade, a crop trade – getting out there and doing it hands-on,” Anderson said. “Our program will be 75 percent or more hands-on.”

Building on the FFA Foundation
For many students involved in National FFA Organization programs, agricultural education begins in high school classrooms and on local farms. The FARM at UACCB extends those opportunities into college, offering certifications and a two-year degree focused on practical, workforce-driven skills.

Students can pursue training such as:

• Heavy equipment operation
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) certification
• Farm and ranch management skills
• Crop production and greenhouse operations

“We want students to be able to take what they learn, both hands-on and in the classroom, and go out and find a great job in life,” Anderson said.

A State-of-the-Art Learning Environment
The FARM at UACCB features a newly renovated facility that includes classrooms, meeting spaces, and a dedicated control room. Two high-tech greenhouses, each measuring 30 feet by 60 feet, will support year-round learning with advanced watering systems and temperature controls.

Anderson says students will begin planting during the program’s first year, with plans to grow sweet corn, pumpkins, okra, and other hardy crops. “We’re going to try to have a you-pick or we-pick opportunity for the area,” Anderson said. “And then we’ll have greenhouse plants, flowers, herbs, and more.”

Real-World Ranch Experience
Beyond crop production, students will gain livestock experience on a 207-acre farm located across from campus. The property has been generously leased by the Barnett family to provide hands-on training in cattle operations.

Students will learn essential skills such as:
Vaccinating and deworming cattle
Ear tagging and herd management
Assisting with calving
Transporting cattle
Observing livestock sales at the sale barn

“It’s very important to learn what you buy and where it comes from,” Anderson said. The first cattle are scheduled to arrive in March, and the land will welcome its first cohort of students this fall. Enrollment is now open, with classes beginning in August.

Continuing the Legacy of Agricultural Education
The FARM at UACCB provides a clear pathway for students passionate about agriculture, from high school FFA and 4-H chapters to college-level workforce training and beyond.

“If any student wants to come visit and talk about FFA and join our ag program, we’d more than likely have them come by,” Anderson said. Students and families interested in learning more can visit www.uaccb.edu/farm or call 870-612-2000 to speak with recruiter Tina Goodman to schedule a tour.

Anderson recently visited with White River Now’s Chad Whiteaker on Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ about The FARM Program.

Listen to Whiteaker’s conversation with Anderson below: