Wilbur-Ellis Media Contact
Sandra Gharib

+ 1. 415.772.4036

sgharib@wilburellis.com

Former FFA member discusses organization’s positive impact on future professional development in agriculture

SAN FRANCISCO – April 15, 2014 – Wilbur-Ellis Company continues its investment in the future of the agricultural industry by promoting its commitment and ongoing participation with FFA through a number of initiatives and contributions announced today. The commitment is an example of the company’s various efforts to broaden contribution outreach within the company, and find new opportunities to encourage employee involvement with FFA.

Former FFA members, like Ryan Robinson, Wilbur-Ellis branch manager in Blissfield, Mich., understands the positive impact FFA has on future career development and why the next generation of agricultural leaders should be involved in the organization.

“Through my involvement with FFA, I’ve developed some of my strongest professional and personal relationships with people I’ve met across the state and even country,” said Robinson. “Looking back, my agricultural experiences with FFA definitely gave me a competitive advantage when I entered the professional arena and provided me with the essential knowledge leadership skills that have helped me become an effective communicator and a better team player.”

In addition to its employee match program, Wilbur-Ellis will contribute to FFA scholarships, National Career Fair and proficiency contests, Career Pathway Supporter through the Ag Career Network, and state and local chapter support.

“As a member of the National Sponsors’ Board, I find it very rewarding to meet young agricultural professionals who have found a voice and confidence through their involvement with FFA,” said Jim Loar, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Wilbur-Ellis. “Our relationship with FFA is multidimensional and one of our greatest contributions that we make as a company is our employees’ time and involvement. We are committed to helping the organization’s local chapters empower members to cultivate successful careers in agriculture.”

Wilbur-Ellis is co- hosting an FFA Sponsors’ Board reception in Napa, Calif., on May 8, 2014.

For more information, please visit www.wilburellis.com