From the Field to the Podium: Kasen Elsberry Claims State Champion Title in Wildlife Management and Production

Not many high school seniors can say they are an honor graduate, a state champion, and a volunteer firefighter — Kasen Elsberry can check all three.

An honor graduate, part-time worker, and volunteer firefighter with the Summerville Fire Department, Kasen has spent his high school years doing what most people twice his age have not — showing up, putting in the work, and doing it all at the same time. And now he has a State Champion title in Wildlife Management and Production to add to an already impressive resume.

This is not a kid who took the easy road. Between balancing school, FFA, SkillsUSA, and running calls with the Summerville Fire Department, Kasen built something remarkable — a four-year body of work that just earned him the top spot in the state and a ticket to Nationals.

A Love for the Land That Started Early

Kasen’s introduction to FFA came in sixth grade, right around the same time he was already developing a deep love for the outdoors. Hunting, managing land, and understanding the natural world were not just hobbies — they were a way of life.

“When I learned about the Wildlife Management and Production proficiency, it immediately caught my attention,” Kasen shared. “It wasn’t just about being outside — it was about understanding the land, improving it, and making decisions that actually impact wildlife populations.”

That combination of passion and purpose set the foundation for what would become a four-year journey to the top.

What Wildlife Management and Production Actually Is

For those unfamiliar with the discipline, Kasen breaks it down simply. Wildlife Management and Production is about managing land to support healthy and sustainable wildlife populations. For Kasen, that meant working hands-on at a private wildlife preserve — improving habitat, tracking wildlife, and collecting long-term data, particularly on deer harvests.

“The competition involves documenting your work, showing growth over time, and demonstrating knowledge in areas like habitat management, population control, and conservation practices,” he explained. “To be successful, it takes consistency, attention to detail, very strong record keeping, and a real understanding of how wildlife and land work together.”

It is not a competition for the impatient. And that is exactly what makes Kasen’s achievement so impressive.

Four Years in the Making

Winning State Champion did not happen overnight, and Kasen is the first to acknowledge that. One of his biggest challenges was staying consistent over a long stretch of time in a field where results do not come quickly.

“Wildlife management isn’t something where you see instant results — it takes time,” he said. “Balancing school, FFA, SkillsUSA, volunteer firefighting, and everything else was also a challenge.”

What kept him going was a clear vision of what he was working toward — and two mentors who made sure he never lost sight of it.

Kasen was quick to credit his advisors, David Yarbrough and Lauren Jarrett, for playing a major role in his success. Their investment in him went well beyond paperwork and deadlines.

“They pushed me to be better at every part of my application,” Kasen said. “They helped me with mock interviews to better set myself up for the state competition.”

That kind of mentorship — the kind that prepares you not just to compete but to walk into a room with confidence — makes all the difference.

A Moment He Will Never Forget

When his name was finally called at the state competition, Kasen said the emotion was hard to put into words.

“Hearing my name called made all of the time and effort worth it,” he said. “It was a really proud moment — not just for me, but for everyone who helped me get there.”

On top of the championship, Kasen also earned his State FFA Degree — a distinction that reflects years of demonstrated leadership, community involvement, and commitment to the organization.

What FFA Means to Him

Ask Kasen what FFA has meant to his life and he does not hesitate.

“It has given me opportunities, experiences, and connections that I wouldn’t have had otherwise,” he said. “It’s helped me grow as a leader and as a person.”

His advice to younger students just getting started? Get involved and stick with it.

“Don’t be afraid to get involved. Stick with it, even when it gets tough, because the long-term payoff is worth it. You never know where it might take you.”

Eyes on Nationals — and Beyond

Kasen is now setting his sights on Nationals, where he plans to represent his school, his chapter, and the state of Georgia with everything he has got.

After graduation, he plans to attend Berry College for business while also enrolling at GNTC for Construction Management — a path that reflects the same drive and discipline that carried him through four years of FFA.

“I have always been a go-getter and I always try to push myself to do the best in everything I participate in,” he said.

But before the mentors, before the medals, and before the moment his name was announced as the state champion — there were Eddie and Cindi Elsberry. His parents have been his number one supporters in everything he has ever set his sights on, encouraging him every step of the way and giving him the freedom to chase every opportunity that came his way. “None of this happens without their support,” Kasen said.