ITCA Students Meet with State Legislators at Gem State Leadership Conference

Four Idaho Technical Career Academy (ITCA) students recently represented the school at the Gem State Leadership Conference, an annual event hosted by the Idaho FFA Association to help young leaders strengthen their communication skills, learn about agricultural advocacy and connect with peers and industry professionals. The conference provides hands-on learning experiences, allowing students to gain insight into policy-making and leadership while exploring careers in agriculture. 

A highlight of the event was a special lunch with members of the Idaho Legislature, where ITCA students engaged in discussions about legislation moving through the House of Representatives and their potential effects on agriculture. They thoughtfully articulated ideas, proposed solutions and explored ways to involve younger generations in shaping policies that support the future of the industry. 

One of ITCA’s 10th-grade students noted the conference’s social and hands-on benefits. “Gem State Leadership (GSL) was a great opportunity for me to socialize with peers in my own chapter and other chapters. The GSL sessions were especially fun because not only were there hands-on activities, but we also learned important skills that we use in modern day but will also use in the future. Some of these skills included leadership, socialization, public speaking and problem-solving.” 

Lu, an ITCA senior, shared, “FFA has been a key influence in my personal growth, teaching me valuable skills such as public speaking, teamwork and time management. Through participating in events and leadership opportunities, I’ve gained confidence in my abilities and learned how to collaborate effectively with others. As I look toward the future, FFA has provided me with a strong foundation to become a capable leader, ready to take on challenges and make a positive impact in my community.” 

She added that the Gem State Leadership Conference “helped me build important leadership skills like communication and teamwork. It gave me the chance to meet other students and learn from their experiences. This has motivated me to become a better leader and apply what I’ve learned in the future.” 

Another 11th-grade ITCA student learned the value of making mistakes on the path to success. “During Gem State Leadership, one thing that we learned that stood out to me was that you need to make mistakes in order to succeed. Each mistake is one step closer to reaching your goal. Wording it that way really helped me to understand that it really is a necessary part of the journey. Being in FFA, and attending these conferences really helps me to prepare for the future. It has helped me to be more social, have the confidence to go out of my comfort zone and have faith that I can succeed. Not to mention, you meet amazing people and build relationships that last a lifetime.” 

Through their participation, ITCA students showcased their knowledge, professionalism and passion for leadership. Their ability to navigate discussions on real-world legislative topics highlights the impact of career-focused education and hands-on learning opportunities at ITCA. 

The Gem State Leadership Conference provided a valuable experience for students looking to make a difference in their communities and careers. ITCA is proud to support students in developing the skills and confidence to lead in their chosen fields. 

Get Involved with ITCA 

At ITCA, students have the opportunity to gain real-world experience, build leadership skills and explore career pathways that align with their interests. Whether through career and technical education programs, leadership events or hands-on learning experiences, ITCA provides the flexibility and resources to help students succeed. 

Interested in learning more? Visit our Agriculture Pathway page to explore ITCA’s programs and see how you can get involved in your community and FFA when you enroll!