Program Specialist - Awards and Degrees Logistics

Awards And Degrees Program Specialist Logistics, Operations & Event Delivery

The Awards and Degrees Program Specialist Logistics, Operations & Event Delivery leads the planning, coordination, and execution of National FFA's Agriscience Fair, American FFA Degree, American Star Award, National Chapter Award, SAE Awards and Honorary Awards annually across in-person, virtual, and hybrid formats. This role ensures events are well-organized, safe, accessible, and executed with consistency and operational excellence.

As the primary logistics owner for assigned events, the specialist manages the full operational lifecyclefrom pre-event planning and space coordination through virtual and on-site execution and post-event evaluation. The role develops detailed logistics plans, venue layouts, schedules, and contingency strategies, and serves as the on-site operational lead during events. The role leads to the recruitment, retention and recognition of well over 4,000 volunteers annually to judge applications and host interviews. Working in close partnership with content and assessment specialists, vendors, and cross-functional teams, the specialist integrates operational planning with program requirements while stewarding the awards and recognitions budget to support high-quality delivery and positive participant experiences.

Skills And Core Competencies

Job Knowledge

• Demonstrates strong knowledge of large-scale event operations, venue coordination, and logistical planning.
• Apply best practices in event flow, space utilization, accessibility, and participant safety.
• Understands the operational requirements of competitive events, including timing, scoring flow, and volunteer coordination.
• Monitors trends in event operations, technology (including audiovisual needs), and delivery models to inform future improvements.

Work Product

• Produces accurate, detailed logistical plans, schedules, diagrams, and operational documentation.
• Maintains version-controlled event logistics materials to support consistency and repeatability across events.
• Utilizes event management systems and digital tools to manage registration, scheduling, room assignments, and operational tracking.
• Evaluates post-event operational outcomes and translates findings into actionable improvements for future cycles.
• Ensures logistical deliverables are completed accurately, on time, and in alignment with program standards.
• Recruits, tracks, communicates with, and provides recognition for over 4,000 volunteer judges and assistants annually.

Customer Focus

• Supports a positive participant, volunteer, and stakeholder experience through clear communication and responsive logistical support.
• Addresses operational inquiries and issues with a solution-oriented, calm, and professional approach.
• Ensures event environments are welcoming, accessible, and well-organized for diverse participants.
• Collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to anticipate and address participant needs.

Dependability

• Effectively manages multiple concurrent events, priorities, and deadlines with accuracy and follow-through.
• Demonstrates accountability for logistical outcomes, timelines, documentation, and budget adherence.
• Applies consistent attention to detail in event setup, schedules, diagrams, and operational execution.
• Follows through on commitments related to vendors, venues, and internal coordination.

Teamwork

• Collaborates cross-functionally with content, education, awards, marketing, IT, evaluation, finance, and operations teams to deliver integrated competitive events.
• Partners with vendors, venues, and service providers to ensure alignment with event requirements and quality standards.
• Works closely with the content and assessment leads to integrate operational plans with judging and scoring needs.
• Contributes positively to team planning, problem-solving, and continuous improvement efforts.

Communication

• Communicates logistical plans, timelines, and expectations clearly to staff, volunteers, vendors, and partners.
• Facilitates operational briefings, walk-throughs, and on-site coordination meetings.
• Provides clear documentation and updates to support shared understanding across teams.
• Represents the organization professionally during event operations and partner interactions.

Belonging

• Fosters a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment through thoughtful event design and execution.
• Prioritizes participant and staff well-being in logistical planning and on-site operations.
• Demonstrates professionalism, accountability, and care in all interactions.
• Supports equity, access, and dignity through accessible and inclusive event environments.

Education: Bachelor's degree required. Certified Meeting Professional, CMP certification preferred. Background in event management or hospitality and tourism is required.

Experience: Minimum of six years of relevant experience is required. Competitive events delivery experience is required. A minimum of one year of management/supervisory experience is preferred. Working knowledge of project management concepts, tools, and activities, including Box, and Office 356 (SharePoint, Teams, Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint), diagramming software (Visio, Social Tables), registration and housing systems, (Certain, Passkey).

Physical Demands: Light sedentary work. May lift up to 50 pounds occasionally, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Repetitive motion. Substantial movements (motions) of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers. Employees are required to have close visual acuity to perform activities; viewing a computer terminal; extensive reading.

Work Environment: Indoor, cubicle environment. Hybrid working location

Travel: 5% Travel (Convention / As Needed)

Overnight Travel: <0% n/a

FFA Values: Integrity: "Upfront and Honest Always" Do what is right, all the time. Choose Courage over Comfort. Be open and Truthful

Respect: "We Before Me" Be Considerate and Courteous. Respect differences in all interactions. Encourage and recognize others.

Accountability: "Do It, Own It" Take Initiative, do what you say you will do. Own Mistakes.