Last year, Fort Loramie members took the Agricultural Technical and Mechanical Systems online exam, questioning the students about the basic aspects of engineering and mechanics, and qualified for this year’s state finals in Columbus on Friday, October 3rd. At the contest, each team member was presented with a problem and a series of questions in all of the four areas: machinery systems, energy systems, structural systems and environmental and natural resources systems. Then all team members worked together in a group activity, where they were instructed to build an aquaponic and were tested on their ability to collaborate while constructing the mechanism.
Fort Loramie FFA’s team included Jason Ahrns, son of Vern and Amy Ahrns, David Holthaus, son of Roger and Wendy Holthaus, Jordan Meyer, son of Jim and Deb Meyer, and Amanda Seger, daughter of Ken and Janice Seger. After competing, the team ranked 9th out of all the schools present and David Holthaus scored 18th in the state as an individual.
Participant, David, claims the contest helped him improve his welding techniques, problem solving skills and performing calculations. Amanda, studying to be an agriculture teacher, believes that the skills she acquired from this experience will be beneficial towards her future career. Both individuals advise to any interested members that the contest requires numerous math skills, studying and practice, but it’s an experience that’s worthwhile.
Four Fort Loramie FFA members, (left to right) David Holthaus, Jordan Meyer, Amanda Seger and Jason Ahrns, compete in the Ag Technical and Mechanical Systems State Finals.