David Lopez, 2019–2020 State Sentinel
For David Lopez, serving as a California FFA State Officer was just the beginning of a career journey defined by flexibility and growth. Lopez served as California FFA’s 2019–2020 State Sentinel before stepping into a national role as the 2020–2021 Western Region Vice President. Originally from the Holtville FFA Chapter, he now works as a broker operations coordinator at a specialty insurance provider, RT Specialty. In this role, Lopez supports the lead broker and account executives by preparing for client visits, maintaining existing accounts, and strengthening communication across the transportation team.
The path to this position started with a degree in agricultural sciences from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and an early career in agricultural policy, particularly in trade. While that work was rewarding, Lopez chose to try something new. “I chose to pursue an opportunity outside my comfort zone, one that would allow me to build on the skills I had gained in previous roles while also developing new, long-term competencies,” he explains.
That willingness to stretch comes from lessons first practiced during his time in office. Organizing chapter and industry visits, along with the communication and coordination those events required, provided invaluable preparation. “Those responsibilities helped me develop strong time management and organizational skills, which have been incredibly useful following my time as a state and national FFA officer,” Lopez reflects.
When asked what continues to carry forward from FFA into professional life, the answer is clear: the fundamentals. “All the foundational skills we learn as FFA members—communication, time management, organization, and leadership—are so crucial in the workforce,” Lopez shares. “It all stems from the lessons we gain through workshops, events, and commitments during our time in the blue jacket.”
Taylor Sollecito, 2020–2021 State Reporter
For Taylor Sollecito, serving as California FFA State Reporter in 2020–2021 was a formative experience that shaped both professional skills and personal growth. A member of the Salinas FFA Chapter, Sollecito graduated from Fresno State with a degree in agricultural communications and a certificate of special study in agricultural leadership. Today, she works as a marketing coordinator at Tanimura & Antle, a produce grower-shipper based in the Salinas Valley. In her role, Sollecito leads the coordination of trade shows, internal events, and customer tours, manages logistics, and creates experiences that reflect the company’s brand, values, and goals. She works closely with departments across the company and oversees branded merchandise, internship programs, and education initiatives to build connections both inside and outside Tanimura & Antle.
Sollecito’s career path started close to home. She grew up less than a mile from Tanimura & Antle’s headquarters, surrounded by the company’s fields, trucks, and community presence. In the spring of 2023, she applied for a marketing intern role and was offered the opportunity. The internship provided hands-on exposure to produce marketing and a strong cultural fit with the team. As graduation approached, she reached out to her director to explore potential opportunities and was offered a full-time position.
One of the greatest challenges in her role is keeping up with the fast-paced produce industry. Event plans can change multiple times a day, and Sollecito must ensure that experiences remain seamless for customers and industry members. She credits her time as a state officer during the COVID era for preparing her to adapt quickly and effectively. One example was a sectional leadership night hosted via Zoom from her cabin while the Creek Fire caused power and Wi-Fi outages nearby. Using creativity and determination, she and her team delivered on their commitments despite the obstacles.
The lessons that have carried forward from FFA are clear. “Professionalism, the ability to take and apply feedback, and being willing to engage in any conversation are the most valuable skills I gained during my time as a state officer,” Sollecito explains. Hard skills can be taught to anyone, she adds, but interpersonal skills gained through contests, conferences, and leadership opportunities are what set a person apart in the workplace.
Maico Ortiz, 2020–2021 State Sentinel
Serving as California FFA’s State Sentinel taught Maico Ortiz how to lead, adapt, and communicate—skills that continue to guide his career in agriculture. A member of the Galt FFA Chapter, Ortiz is now an outside salesperson and project manager for AvidWater, one of the largest irrigation dealers in the United States. In this role, he balances generating new business opportunities with overseeing the design and installation of large-scale irrigation systems, ensuring projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to the highest quality standards. Covering both Woodland and Hamilton City locations, Ortiz works with operations ranging from small family farms to large agricultural enterprises.
Ortiz’s career path was shaped by persistence and hands-on experience. Growing up around residential construction, he developed a strong work ethic and a preference for outdoor, hands-on work. While attending college, he worked at Capay Farms on irrigation projects, gaining insight into orchard development and the importance of trust between dealers and growers. After graduation, Ortiz pursued opportunities with AvidWater, and mentorship from leaders within the company helped him launch a career he describes as the start of a long and meaningful journey.
Lessons from his officer year continue to guide him. During COVID-19, Ortiz and his team pivoted from in-person member opportunities to increased engagement with industry leaders. Visits to agriculture companies and growers revealed real-world challenges such as labor shortages, water scarcity, and volatile commodity prices. These experiences shaped his approach to sales, emphasizing long-term value, trust, and understanding the unique needs of each grower.
The single most valuable skill Ortiz gained from FFA is communication. Nearly every aspect of his role relies on the ability to explain systems, coordinate teams, and present solutions effectively. “FFA taught me that communication is about connection. It is not about having perfect words, but about making sure the message resonates and builds understanding.”
