The Thomas County Central High School Future Business Leaders of America leadership team participated in the Fall Leadership conference Nov. 18-19 in Athens.

During the opening session of the conference, members heard key note speaker, Julie Marie Carrier, the FBLA historian and motivational speaker. Her presentation was based on one catchphrase.

“Remember your ABC’s,” attendee Jordan Barrett said. “‘Always Be Confident.’”

TCCHS FBLA members in attendance were Jordan Barrett (12), Tessa McCorkle (12), Mason Lawing (11), Justin Barfield (11) and Tyler Williamson (10). Their advisors were Mr. Nick Haskin and Mrs. Michelle Ausley.

Team members and their advisors attended a series of competitive event preparation sessions.

“The FBLA Fall Leadership conference allowed me to gain better testing skills for my competitive events,” attendee Justin Barfield said. “It also gave me more information on how to construct a speech, which in turn helps me gain more confidence when I am competing in presentation events.”

Attendee Tessa McCorkle participated in two sessions.

“I participated in the Presentation Skills leadership and the Website Design track,” she said. “After attending these sessions, I’m much more confident in my presentation skills, and my partner and I have the tools needed for success in the Website Design competition.”

Advisor Nick Haskin said the conference “was a neat experience.”

“Our leadership team was able to go through top leadership training, spend time with FBLA state officers, and bond together,” he said. “I was proud to watch them come together.”