The purpose of this study was to determine the preparation of students for careers and continuing education based on their participation in the national farm and agribusiness career development event. The sample consisted of 168 FFA members in one year who participated in the national farm business management career development event. Students indicated more than 50% of the time that the content in this career development event was not taught in their agricultural education classes. Most often preparation for the career development event took place after school (64%). Student preparation for the career development event was most commonly from two to four hours per week. A local advisor (65 %) was responsible for serving as the main coach for the career development event. More than half the students indicated they did not plan to pursue a career in the farm business management area.