MACON, Ga. – Winners of the Poultry Evaluation Career Development Event (CDE) were recognized at the 98^th Georgia FFA State Convention held at the Macon Centreplex on April 22-25, 2026. 

In the senior division, Josh Woelfl of Oconee County was the high-scoring individual, followed by Alexa Martinezavila and Tyler Gay of Oconee County, placing second and third respectively. The senior team state winner was Oconee County, followed by North Oconee in second place and Rutland third. 

The junior division high individual was Jakob Wham of Central Middle, followed by Jaxon Gilliland and Caylee McKinney of Central Middle in second place and third place respectively. The junior team state winner was Central Middle, with second place going to Oconee Middle and third place to Pickens County.

CDE and LDE awards are granted to FFA members and teams who have exhibited premier leadership, personal growth, and career success in a variety of competitions. Poultry Judging teams participate in a set of comprehensive events related to judging, placing, grading and identifying live birds, carcasses, eggs, poultry parts, chicken patties, nuggets or tenders. Participants presented oral reasons, participated in a team activity, and were given a management test.  

The Poultry Evaluation Career Development Event was sponsored on the state level by Fieldale Farms Corporation. 

The National FFA Organization, formerly known as the Future Farmers of America, changed its name in 1988 to reflect the growth and diversity of agriculture. There are over 1 million FFA members nationwide. The Georgia Association has more than 80,000 members, making it the third largest Association in the nation. The FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success, through agricultural education. 

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