GALT, CA (MPG) - Galt High School graduate Jeremy Eaton has been named a national finalist for an FFA award and will represent his hometown and state at the national convention next month. He is the school’s fourth national finalist in recent years.

Eaton, who earned his Galt High diploma in 2023, is one of four finalists selected from across the country for FFA’s Agricultural Services Agricultural Proficiency Award.

The Agricultural Proficiency Awards recognize students who have gained hands-on agricultural experience through employment, apprenticeships or internships, or through owning an agricultural business. Recipients “have developed specialized skills that they can apply toward their future careers,” the national FFA website says.

This is Eaton’s first time reaching the national award level. He was named the winner of the state ag services award at the California FFA conference in March. Fellow Warrior Trinity Jones earned the state Agricultural Proficiency Award in outdoor recreation. Eaton reached the state finalist level in 2023, along with three classmates who advanced.

Four years ago, Eaton began working for Ehlers Hay Service, where he operated forage-harvesting equipment, gaining the skills to operate all equipment of that kind. In 2023, he said he particularly enjoys using the harobed, a vehicle that stacks hay bales, because it allows him to build positive relationships with customers.

With Eaton’s selection, Galt High has sent four proficiency award finalists to the national convention in two years. Before 2023, the school’s previous national finalist was selected in 2002.

Agriculture teacher Derek Silva said ag gives an additional educational opportunity for students.

“I enjoy working with students who are working in agriculture. They might not be able to participate in sports or clubs due to work commitments,” Silva wrote in an email. “A proficiency award application helps give a chance in the ‘spotlight’ as they showcase their responsibilities and what they have learned. It truly embraces the FFA motto of ‘Learning by doing.’”

The 97th annual National FFA Convention and Expo is Oct. 23-26 in Indianapolis.