8th Annual Event Draws 2,500+ FFA Students to Expanded Venue at Minnesota State Fairgrounds
Falcon Heights, Minn. (April 20, 2026) – The 8th Annual Career Connections event marked a major milestone this year, as it was held for the first time in the Progress Center at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. Taking place on Monday morning of the Minnesota FFA State Convention, the expanded venue reflected the continued growth and impact of this statewide career exploration experience.
AgCentric, the Minnesota State Northern Agricultural Center of Excellence, partnered with the MN FFA Foundation and the Minnesota State Southern Agricultural Center of Excellence to help connect students, educators, and industry professionals from across Minnesota during one of the most important weeks in agricultural education.
Zach Miller, Assistant Director of Communications & Outreach for the Minnesota State Energy Center of Excellence:
“I think that was probably the best career fair I have attended, just because the kids were so engaged. That was wonderful to see.”
By the Numbers: 2026 Career Connections
Students had the opportunity to explore careers across Agriculture, Food, Natural Resources, and Energy through hands-on activities, direct conversations with industry professionals, and interactive experiences. AgCentric featured AFNR career pathway cutouts, helping students visualize and better understand the wide range of opportunities available within the industry.
- 89 unique vendors
- 20 Minnesota State Colleges and Universities represented
- 1 Center of Excellence
- More than 2,500 FFA students in attendance
The event also included a full vendor floor representing both education and industry partners, along with a bag giveaway that allowed students to take resources and information with them as they continue exploring their future paths.
Continued Growth Year Over Year
Career Connections has steadily expanded in both size and reach, demonstrating the increasing demand for meaningful career exploration opportunities in agriculture and related fields.
- 2026 (Progress Center): 93 vendor spaces
- 2025 (4-H Building): 79 vendor spaces
- 2024 (Coliseum): 86 vendor spaces
- 2023 (Coliseum): 78 vendor spaces
- 2022 (Coliseum): 68 vendor spaces
Each year, more students, educators, and industry partners come together to build connections that extend beyond the event itself.
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