Tylor Aary advocates through Ag Communications
MIAMI, OKLA. – Although she did not grow up in agriculture, Tylor Aary discovered a passion for advocacy, leadership and communication through FFA. The recent Miami High School graduate used opportunities within the organization to develop confidence, earn state-level recognition and prepare for a future career in journalism.
Aary, 18, of Miami, Okla., is the daughter of Shannon and Tori Aary. She joined the Miami FFA Chapter as an eighth-grade student, despite having no agricultural background or family ties to the industry.
“I joined FFA my eighth-grade year as a shy and unsure student,” she said. “My family has no ties to agriculture, and no one in my immediate circle was involved in FFA, so I knew I was taking a chance by joining the class. At first, I had no interest in anything FFA had to offer, but my agricultural education instructors, Mr. and Mrs. Bergman, continued to push me outside of my comfort zone, and I realized how many opportunities the organization could offer.”
As she became more involved, Aary discovered a passion for agricultural communications and public speaking.
“My interest in agricultural communications began early in my FFA journey,” she said. “I was introduced to opening ceremonies, the FFA Creed and public speaking, and I quickly realized how fulfilling speaking opportunities were for me. Since then, I have given multiple speeches and continued to expand my public speaking skills outside of FFA.”
Throughout her FFA career, she participated in several Career Development Events, but public speaking and entomology left the greatest impact.
Those experiences led to some of her proudest accomplishments.
“Every year of high school, I advanced through region, area and state in prepared public speaking divisions,” she said. “I earned five regional champion titles and five state titles, one of which was a state championship.”
FFA also played a significant role in shaping Aary’s leadership abilities and understanding of the agricultural industry.
“Before agriculture education, I didn’t fully understand the importance or reach of the agricultural industry,” she said. “Through my courses, I learned not only the purpose and opportunities within agriculture but also its necessity in everyday life. Although I do not plan to pursue agriculture as a career, I hope to use my communication skills to be a voice for the industry.”
Her interest in communications extended beyond the classroom through internships and professional experiences. During the summer, she job shadowed at KSN 16, gaining insight into newsroom operations and broadcast journalism.
She also completed an internship at the Miami News-Record under Dana Salkill, where she learned about newspaper production and assisted with daily responsibilities.
In addition, Aary served as an FFA in the USA reporter for Oklahoma, covering stories about agricultural leaders, students and alumni across the state.
“In that role, I covered local stories highlighting industry professionals, students and alumni making a difference in agriculture and their communities,” she said. “All of these experiences helped shape who I am today and strengthened my understanding of the communications field.”
Through those experiences, she learned valuable lessons that will continue to benefit her in the future.
“I learned the importance of professionalism, communication and adaptability,” she said.
Aary said agricultural communications played a vital role in connecting consumers to the agricultural industry.
“As someone who did not grow up in agriculture, much of my understanding came from media and communication,” she said. “Agricultural communications allow consumers to better understand the importance and impact of agriculture in their daily lives.”
Balancing school, FFA activities and other commitments required dedication and strong time-management skills.
“It takes organization and commitment to keep up with everything,” she said.
Aary credited much of her success to the support of her parents.
“I have been grateful to have a strong support system with me every step of the way,” she said. “My parents have shown me the value of hard work and investing in yourself for your future.”
Looking back on her FFA journey, Aary said the organization helped her grow in confidence, leadership and purpose.
“My experience is unique because I did not grow up in agriculture,” she said. “FFA taught me that agriculture is for everyone, and that passion and dedication matter just as much as experience.”
Her advice to younger students was simple.
“Never let a lack of experience stop you from pursuing something you are passionate about,” she said. “Some of my greatest growth came from stepping outside my comfort zone and saying yes to opportunities that scared me. Agriculture needs strong, passionate leaders from all backgrounds.”
For Aary, agriculture provided opportunities she never expected when she first joined FFA as a shy eighth-grade student.
“To me, being a young woman in agriculture means being willing to lead, learn and represent an industry that impacts everyone, even if you didn’t grow up in it,” she said.
