Fastenal Company (Nasdaq: FAST) has announced a major milestone in its long-running commitment to agricultural education, youth leadership, and workforce development. The company has entered into a new corporate partnership with the National FFA Organization—an alliance that deepens Fastenal’s support of future agricultural leaders while expanding opportunities for students across the United States.
The National FFA Organization, formerly known as Future Farmers of America, is one of the nation’s largest and most influential youth leadership associations. With a mission rooted in leadership development, personal growth, and career readiness, FFA serves more than 945,000 middle and high school students in agricultural programs nationwide. Fastenal’s expanded partnership underscores the company’s dedication not only to agriculture but also to building the skills and competencies necessary for tomorrow’s workforce.
Strengthening a Shared Commitment to Agriculture and Youth
Fastenal has long recognized the vital role agriculture plays in the strength and sustainability of communities across the country. From food security and environmental stewardship to science, technology, and innovation, agriculture touches nearly every aspect of society. By partnering with FFA, Fastenal is investing directly in the students and educators who will shape the next era of food production, agriscience, and rural leadership.
“I’m extremely excited about expanding our relationship with FFA,” said Casey Miller, Fastenal’s senior executive vice president of sales. “The future of farming and food production in our country is such an important priority, and Fastenal is here to do its part.”
Miller’s remarks reflect a broader philosophy within Fastenal: that empowering students with education, resources, and leadership experiences strengthens not only the agricultural sector but the larger economy and communities where the company operates.
A Seat at the Table: Strengthening Engagement at the National Level
As part of the new agreement, Miller has joined the National FFA Sponsors’ Board, a select group of business leaders who help guide and support the organization’s strategic initiatives. This role will give Fastenal a more active voice in shaping FFA programs, partnerships, and long-term goals.
Fastenal will also expand its presence at the annual National FFA Convention & Expo—one of the largest student conventions in the United States—held each October. The event brings together more than 70,000 students, advisors, exhibitors, and industry professionals for a week of competitions, workshops, leadership sessions, and career exploration. Fastenal’s increased involvement will allow the company to engage directly with students, educators, and future talent pipelines.
Targeted Programs to Support Education, Leadership, and Opportunity
The corporate partnership brings with it an expanded suite of Fastenal-funded initiatives that are designed to reach FFA members at the local, state, and national levels. These include:
1. Advancing Agricultural Education Through Local Chapter and State Grants
Fastenal will continue to support agricultural education through targeted grants distributed to state FFA associations and local chapters. These grants help fund classroom materials, leadership activities, community projects, and hands-on learning experiences that are central to FFA’s curriculum.
For many rural and underserved schools, such grants make the difference between maintaining robust agricultural programs and struggling to provide even the most basic equipment or supplies. Fastenal’s continued investment ensures that educators and students have the tools needed to innovate, learn, and lead.
2. Investing in Students Through the Fastenal Innovators Scholarship
To help students pursue careers in agriculture and related sciences, Fastenal has established the Fastenal Innovators Scholarship. Through the FFA’s centralized scholarship application system, students can now apply for one of five Fastenal-funded college scholarships. These awards help reduce financial barriers for students pursuing degrees in fields such as agronomy, environmental science, engineering, animal science, business, and agricultural education.
The scholarship fund highlights Fastenal’s belief that a strong agricultural future requires not only hands-on experience at the high school level but continued education and career development beyond graduation.
3. Fostering Belonging Through the “Give the Gift of Blue” Initiative
One of FFA’s most iconic symbols is the blue corduroy jacket, a staple of the organization for generations. For many students, receiving an FFA Blue Jacket represents a powerful moment of pride, identity, and belonging. However, not all students have the means to purchase one.
Fastenal’s financial support helps expand FFA’s Give the Gift of Blue program, which provides new, customized jackets to members who need them. This initiative helps ensure that every student can participate fully in FFA, regardless of financial background, and reinforces the inclusive spirit of the organization.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders Across Industries
While FFA is rooted in agriculture, the skills it builds—leadership, communication, responsibility, teamwork, and innovation—prepare students for success in a wide array of professions. Many FFA alumni become farmers or ranchers, but others go on to careers as biologists, veterinarians, chemists, engineers, business owners, teachers, and public leaders.
As an official partner, Fastenal has the opportunity to help guide and mentor the next generation of problem-solvers and industry professionals who will address some of the most pressing challenges facing the world today—from climate change and food production to supply chain resilience and sustainable resource management.
A Personal Connection: Leadership That Comes Full Circle
For Fastenal CEO Dan Florness, the partnership is more than a corporate initiative—it is personal.
“As a former member and officer of FFA, specifically the Ellsworth, Wisconsin chapter, I’m a big believer in what they do,” Florness shared. “I also had the honor of serving on the National FFA Sponsors’ Board, so I saw their impact up close and personal. FFA is a great organization, and Fastenal is proud to support their efforts to develop the next generation of leaders inside and outside of agriculture.”
Florness’ experience reflects the transformative power of FFA programs. Many alumni credit the organization with helping them discover educational pathways, build confidence, and develop leadership skills that shaped their careers.
Moving Forward: A Stronger Partnership for a Stronger Future
Fastenal’s expanded partnership with the National FFA Organization signals a renewed commitment to nurturing young talent and supporting agricultural communities nationwide. Through grants, scholarships, leadership initiatives, and personal engagement, Fastenal is helping ensure that students have the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to succeed.
In strengthening its connection with FFA, Fastenal is not only honoring the organization’s rich legacy but also investing in the innovation and leadership required to meet the evolving needs of agriculture and industry.
Together, Fastenal and FFA are planting the seeds for a future defined by resilience, sustainability, and empowered young leaders ready to build a better and more sustainable world.
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