What is a primary focus of the FFA's Career Development Events (CDE)?

The primary focus of the FFA's Career Development Events (CDE) is to help students apply agricultural education in real-world scenarios. CDEs are designed to provide practical experience and hands-on learning opportunities that correlate with the skills and knowledge students gain in their agricultural education programs. These events allow members to explore different career pathways in agriculture, develop critical thinking and leadership skills, and engage in teamwork and problem-solving. By participating in CDEs, students can gain insights into various careers, such as animal science, agronomy, horticulture, and agricultural business, enabling them to make informed decisions about their future within the agricultural industry. This focus on real-world application distinguishes CDEs from other activities that may prioritize fundraising, academic competitions, or conferences, which do not specifically aim to enhance direct application of learned agricultural concepts.