Future Business Leaders of America is nationally known for building strong, determined high-school students to prepare them for business, entrepreneurship, and plenty of other activities.  The club originally started in 1940 by Dr. Hamden L. Forkner, and started its world-wide recognition shortly after. At James Caldwell High School, our FBLA club gives students the opportunity to gain practical leadership skills while also networking with other schools and professionals to strengthen their knowledge. 

The organization aims to develop competitive environments around students to prepare them for the business world around them. The club also helps with aspects of community service, community involvement, and overall creating well-rounded individuals. The club focuses on the values of integrity, leadership, and creativity as they learn how to problem solve through various ways. 

There are three different divisions within FBLA:

• FBLA Middle-Level: Focuses on introducing the newer generations to the ideas of the organization, typically done between fifth and eighth grade.
• FBLA High School: Largest division which collaborates with high school students, offers competitive meetings while
• FBLA Collegiate: Pivots towards benefiting adults with business and career preparation 

Each division works together to benefit each member, providing opportunities for competitive environments and overall how to run a business. FBLA members also learn how to run and influence a team for their future jobs. 

As stated previously, the FBLA participates in multiple competitive events throughout each level. These events are extremely popular for their recognizable features. Within these events members will discuss business, technology, marketing, and practice public speaking skills. These competitions are sectioned into three parts: Regional/Local, State, and National. At Regional/Local level members compete against local counties in order to qualify for states. Then, at the state level winners from regional competitions move up. Lastly, at the national level, the top competitors from regional events compete against each other from all over the country. 

Lastly, this club is an extremely valuable and important experience that every student at JCHS can enjoy! Even though the academic and professional benefits are extraordinary, FBLA also allows students to build meaningful relationships with their peers. Through team building events, projects, and even community service activities students learn leadership skills outside of the classroom. These skills help students no matter what their future career holds for them. Overall, Future Business Leaders of America is one of the most influential organizations our school takes part in!