When Clayton Elbel interviews for his next job, he will not only have experience in working hard but also in interviewing.

On Dec. 2, Elbel placed fifth in the state in the job interview contest for the Texas FFA Leadership Development Event at Sam Houston State University.

At the competition, members submit a resume and complete a job application for a agricultural position. They then participate in a three minute interview via telephone, a 10 minute interview in person one on one, and an interview with a panel of possible employers.

“The contest develops skills needed to become an employable individual and teaches you how to apply and get a job.” Elbel said.

Elbel competed first at the Guadalupe Valley District with 12 other schools, placing second and advancing to area. He then won the Area VII job interview contest and advanced to state against 14 elite schools across the San Antonio/Austin area.

“This contest started with 488 students beginning the competition at their local districts with only the top 2 per district advancing to the areas and then top 2 advancing to state,” Agriculture Science teacher Martin Shaw said. “He did an excellent job.”

Last year at the FFA 2016 national Reserves, Elbel won the title of National Champion last year for horse judging and the team he participated with placed second nationally.

“Because of my experience in the equine industry and my horse judging successes during high school, i applied for the junior assistant barn manager position at Moore Quarter Horse,” Elbel said. “The job is to assist in their barn management program and equine reproduction operations.”

Elbel, who identifies himself as a hard worker, said he was proud of his accomplishments.

“I was so thankful and overcome with pride within my FFA chapter and my skills that I had developed,” Elbel said. “It’s a big honor to place at LDE State Competition, and I was glad I got the opportunity.”