Preparing Future Agricultural Educators for Classrooms and Communities

By Andi Anderson

Growing up in LaGrange, Indiana, surrounded by small towns and strong agricultural traditions, Conner Keeslar from purdue developed an early appreciation for community and education. Now an agricultural education major planning to graduate in May 2028, he is preparing for a career focused on teaching and guiding the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Keeslar’s interest in teaching began at a young age. While becoming an educator was always a possibility, his involvement in the agricultural program at Prairie Heights High School helped him clearly identify his career path.

Through classroom learning and extracurricular activities, he discovered the impact that agricultural education can have on students and local communities.

One of his most meaningful experiences has been working with the Indiana FFA Association through the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. This role allowed him to gain direct experience with the FFA portion of the three-circle model of agricultural education.

The model includes classroom instruction, supervised agricultural experiences, and FFA participation, all of which work together to support student growth.

 “Working with the Indiana FFA Association helped me better understand how it fits into a complete agricultural education,” he said. “That experience will help me better support my future students.”

As he looks ahead, Keeslar encourages students who already know they want to pursue agricultural education to carefully consider their college options.

 “Purdue should be at the top of the list,” he said. “Our community, our plan of study and our connections across the College of Agriculture really set this program apart.”

He also offers guidance to students who may still be unsure about their academic direction. Agricultural education, he explains, offers more flexibility than many realize.

“There is a misconception that ag education majors can only become high school teachers,” he said. “In reality, there are many career paths, from 4-H educators to corporate training and outreach roles.”

Through education, hands-on experience, and strong community connections, future educators like Keeslar are helping ensure that agricultural knowledge and leadership continue to grow for generations to come.

Photo Credit: purdue-university