The annual AFA Leaders Conference is a three-track program designed to offer college men and women three different personal and professional development opportunities spread across and matched to their years in college.

Track 1 program is designed for freshmen and focuses on assessment and the development of fundamental skills crucial for success in college and career. Delegates complete personal assessment tools and receive training in resume development, time management, goal setting and personal skill development while assessing the opportunities available to them within their chosen career path.

Track 2 program is designed for sophomore/juniors and focuses on communication skills and preparing for employment. Dressing for success, first impressions, critical thinking, team leadership roles and personal ethics are addressed as a part of this program.

Track 3 program prepares junior/seniors to live and work in a global market. Sessions include managing personal change, stress management and preparing for employment. Delegates participate in discussions focused on rural policy, personal financial management and international agriculture business. Extensive executive mentoring is an integral part of this track.

AFA partners with Franklin Covey to provide resources for personal development. At each level of the program, students further enhance skill sets and competencies.

Conference sessions are facilitated by more than 100 nationally recognized leaders in agriculture, business, government and education. Delegates have the opportunity to expand their personal and professional portfolios through discussions and training sessions with industry leaders. These leaders and mentors draw on their personal experiences as they participate in conference discussion sessions.

An important component of the Leaders Conference, the AFA Opportunity Fair, provides a unique environment for human resource representatives to communicate, advocate and mentor AFA students about opportunities available within the industry. Corporations, associations, colleges/universities representing the span of the industry recruit AFA students for intern, full-time employment and graduate studies.