Cushing High School FFA chapter member Reid Caldwell started his FFA journey when he was in the eighth grade. It was his father who encouraged him to join. 

“I first got involved with FFA in eighth grade, but I’ve shown animals most of my life,” Caldwell said. “My dad is the main person that got me involved with the FFA. It started with showing animals then I got into livestock judging and speeches and other leadership activities.” 

Showing livestock is old hat for Caldwell. He currently shows two different types of animals and loves being in the ring and showcasing his prized animals. 

“I do show animals. This year I am showing sheep and pigs but, in the past, I have also shown goats,” said Caldwell. 

Raising and owning livestock is just one thing Caldwell enjoys about being in FFA. 

“The thing that enjoy most about the FFA is meeting new people from all over the state and the country. For example, we went to the national convention and I met many people from other states that I have never visited and probably would have never met otherwise,” Caldwell said. 

Caldwell devotes almost all of his time to his livestock and working on his skills as a public speaker when he is not working on his homework. Caldwell is excited to share the possibilities FFA has to offer for all students at Cushing High School.

“The advice I will give to everyone is to join the FFA if they have the chance. It’s not just showing animals, there are many other opportunities for everyone in the FFA,” Caldwell said. 

Like many of his peers, Caldwell said his parents have played a big role in his life from his decision to join FFA to the normal, everyday things high school students face on a daily basis. 

“I would say that my parents have been the biggest influences in my life because they have guided me down the right path for success not just in the FFA but just life in general,” said Caldwell.