FLOYDADA, TX – Floydada FFA students made their mark at the prestigious Area Tractor Tech Competition held at West Texas A&M University, showcasing their exceptional skills and determination. Both teams represented Floydada with pride, and their achievements are a testament to the hard work they’ve put into honing their technical knowledge.
Team One, consisting of Diego Martinez, Kanon Rainwater, and Robert Luna Jr., placed an impressive 8th in the area competition and took home 2nd place in the district — a remarkable accomplishment that highlights the depth of their expertise. The group’s dedication and teamwork were on full display as they tackled a variety of challenges throughout the event.
Meanwhile, Team Two, made up of Dustin Zavala, Yael Lara, and Cooper Hinsley, may not have placed, but they gained invaluable experience and developed key skills that will serve them well in future competitions. As the alternate team, they worked through the same rigorous challenges as the top contenders, learning essential techniques that will contribute to their growth in the field.
The competition itself was a rigorous test of both technical knowledge and practical application. Teams were tasked with diagnosing and resolving mechanical issues based on a work order, simulating real-world scenarios. This involved part identification, troubleshooting, and debugging — all skills that are critical in the tractor repair industry. Each team worked diligently to complete the work order, document their processes, and provide solutions as they would in an actual professional setting.
“These students demonstrated outstanding abilities and a level of professionalism that speaks volumes about their potential,” said Cory Davis, their FFA advisor. “We couldn’t be prouder of their efforts today, and we are confident they will continue to succeed and grow in this field.”
The Floydada community has much to be proud of as these students continue to represent the district with such skill, dedication, and work ethic. The future looks bright for these young individuals, as they continue to develop the technical expertise that will shape the next generation of professionals in the agricultural industry.
