OKC’s Devon Energy partners with FFA Foundation

 Devon Energy is partnering with the Oklahoma FFA Foundation to put new technology in the hands of Oklahoma students.

Devon is offering the 2019 FFA Technology and Innovation Grant for FFA chapters in central and northwest Oklahoma for the 2019-2020 school year. Grants up to $5,000 will be awarded to support science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) projects emphasizing creativity and sustainability.

The grants will increase students’ awareness of technology like hydroponic systems, incubators, drones and ultrasound machines in the agriculture industry, while also challenging students to develop innovative projects.

“Exposing students to cutting-edge technology and STEM-based education provides a glimpse of potential career paths,” said Christina Rehkop, Devon’s community relations director. “Devon is dedicated to providing the education that future leaders need to succeed.”

The Oklahoma FFA Foundation will accept grant applications through July 12. Priority is given to requests that will be shared between chapters to benefit as many students as possible.

“Gaining access to new technology allows students to explore what’s possible in FFA and the agriculture industry,” said Holly Blakey, Oklahoma FFA Foundation executive director. “The Devon grants will give our students the opportunity to develop new skills and bring ideas to life.”

Last year’s recipients included the Harrah, Guthrie, Choctaw, Hennessey, Stillwater, Central High and Marlow FFA chapters. Grant-winning projects included a ZipGrow Educational Rack to grow produce in a classroom environment, expansion of a sheet metal works program and the Flying to New Heights project, which used a drone to help students better understand crop-scouting solutions.

Chapters winning grants will receive their awards at Oklahoma FFA Chapter Officer Leadership Training conferences in the fall.