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Written by: Delaney Williams
MOUNT CARMEL, Ill. - Nine students from Wabash Valley College recently traveled to Branson, Missouri, to compete in the 2026 National Professional Agriculture Students (PAS) Conference, earning multiple top finishes in both team and individual events.
WVC agriculture program students competed in four team-based career development events, including Farm Business Management, Beef Specialist, Poultry Specialist and College Bowl. In addition, six students participated in individual competitions spanning agricultural marketing and communications, agribusiness systems, animal systems, plant systems, agricultural education and employment interview events focused on agronomic services and agricultural sales.
The PAS Conference provides opportunities for students to apply classroom and experiential knowledge in competitive settings while developing career-ready skills in agriculture. Participants engage in real-world scenarios designed to prepare them for future roles in the industry.
Several WVC students earned national recognition for their performances.
Kelby Ochs of Newton, Ill., placed first in Employment Interview Agronomic Systems. Delaney Williams of Olney earned first place in Career Progress Plant Systems. The Poultry Specialist team of Victoria Rudolphi, Olney, Ill., Cali Bunting, Albion, Ill., and Rockell Allen, Flora, Ill. also secured a first-place finish.
Individually, Rudolphi earned first place in Poultry, while Bunting placed second, and Allen placed third in the same category.
Students said the experience extended beyond competition, providing meaningful personal and professional growth.
“I learned how important the agricultural community is, not only in my community but across the nation,” said Rockell Allen. “I was also able to gain experiences that will be valuable towards my future goals.”
Cali Bunting highlighted the team dynamic built during the trip.
“My favorite part of the contest was working together with my fellow team members competing in the poultry competition,” Bunting said.
Aaron Hatfield of Robinson, Ill. emphasized the connections and memories made at the national level.
“My experience at the national PAS conference was a blast,” Hatfield said. “Getting the chance to meet new people and compete with my classmates is something I will never forget.”
“We are proud of their hard work and dedication,” the WVC Agriculture program said in a statement. “These experiences help prepare our students for successful futures in agriculture.”
