MACON, Ga. – Winners of the Agricultural Mechanics Repair and Maintenance Placement Proficiency were recognized at the 98th Georgia FFA State Convention held at the Macon Centreplex on April 22-25, 2026. 

Lucas Wright of Perry placed first in the proficiency competition. Placing second was James Vaughn of Coffee County. Will Stringer of Jefferson City placed third. 

Proficiency awards are granted to FFA members who have excelled in their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE). The Agricultural Mechanics Repair and Maintenance Placement Proficiency involves programs in which students acquire career experience while working alongside industry professionals operating, repairing and maintaining agricultural structures, machinery or equipment, including lawn equipment. 

The Agricultural Mechanics Repair and Maintenance Placement Proficiency was sponsored at the state level by Ag Technologies.

All proficiency winners received a plaque and a cash award. State winners receive $100, as well as $500 travel money to attend the National FFA Convention. Additionally, the advisor of the state winner received $100 cash. Second place winners received $50, and third place winners received $25. 

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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