By Scout Nelson
The month began with communities across the nation honoring Veterans Day, a moment that encouraged reflection on the true meaning of service. As celebrations continued in schools, towns, and on campus, the importance of service became even clearer. Now, as Thanksgiving approaches, this spirit is especially evident in Nebraska’s agricultural communities.
At the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA) in Curtis, the commitment to service goes beyond academic study. Students learn essential technical and professional skills for agricultural careers, but they also learn what it means to serve—to give back, to persevere, and to contribute to something larger than themselves. These values celebrated in veterans are the same values that guide strong leaders in agriculture.
Service is a shared purpose in both military and agricultural life. It reflects responsibility to people, animals, and the land. Many NCTA students come from families with a tradition of military service or agricultural service. Both experiences build character, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose.
Every day on campus, students demonstrate these qualities as they feed livestock at dawn, support classmates in the shop or lab, and proudly represent NCTA across the state.
This fall has shown once again that agriculture brings uncertainty through weather, markets, and policy. Because of this, NCTA emphasizes resilience, problem-solving, and adaptability. Students are not only taught how to manage crops or livestock but also how to lead to times of change.
Resilience becomes part of their mindset, strengthened through hands-on learning in arenas, feedlots, fields, and classrooms. Faculty mentors guide them with calm, steady leadership.
NCTA aims to empower students by helping them turn potential into purpose. The college encourages growth in both skill and character, reminding students that their work in agriculture serves families, protects natural resources, and strengthens rural communities. Graduates leave Curtis not just with a career path, but with a call.
As Thanksgiving arrives, there is gratitude for those who serve in many ways. The qualities that shape strong soldiers—discipline, honor, teamwork, and perseverance—are the same qualities that shape excellent agricultural leaders. Nebraska’s agricultural community continues to thrive because of the people who choose to serve every day.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-nes
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Education, Livestock, Weather