NCTC is an active member of the Texas Junior College Agriculture Association (TJCAA.) In participating in the TJCAA convention for the first time we were represented by 8 of our current Agriculture Students. At the convention the students were provided with an opportunity to meet and socialize with Agriculture students from nine other Texas community colleges as well as Agriculture students at the host university, Angelo State University (ASU). We were also provided with a tour of the Angelo State ranch facilities and feed mill. During the ranch tour the ASU faculty shared information about some of the latest research projects that was underway at the ranch/research center.

Students had an opportunity to compete in quiz contests, public relations, prepared public speaking, as well as a choice to run for a officer position if they chose. Students also had an opportunity to meet and interact with university professors from with the Agriculture Department from many of the major universities in Texas. At the awards banquet several NCTC students were approached with scholarship opportunities from some of the universities with representatives present. All of the students attending did an outstanding job of representing NCTC. They were professionals in every aspect.

Each student also performed commendably in the areas in which they competed. Ethan Fortenberry placed 1st in all three of his quiz contests which included animal science, agronomy, and Ag. mechanics. Jordan Johnson was also recognized with an award for placing 3rd in prepared public speaking. The categories available in the quiz contests are: Animal Science, Agronomy, Wildlife, Agriculture Economics, Horticulture, Ag. Mechanics.

Also, everyone was provided with an in-depth tour of San Angelo Packing. This is an excellent opportunity for students to get an up close and personal look at the harvesting and packaging process for cattle. Based upon student response our participation in the TJCAA convention was very successful. Several of our students were already talking about attending next year.

Special thanks goes out to Dr. Brian May for organizing this event in 2009 and also to everyone who purchased raffle tickets from the NCTC students as part of a fundraising effort to cover the students travel expenses and registration for the conference.

The TJCAA convention will be hosted by Texas A&M-Commerce in 2010 and by Sul Ross State University in 2011.