Social Driver CEO Thomas Sanchez was recently featured by Future Farmers of America (FFA), a national organization preparing the next generation of leaders through agricultural education and hands-on learning, for the lessons that have shaped his journey from Missouri farm life to leading a digital agency in Washington, D.C.

Growing up planting and harvesting corn and soybeans taught Thomas the value of optimism. It’s an approach that continues to influence how he leads Social Driver, partnering with organizations like the National Farmers Union, Farm Credit Council, Amazon, and Starbucks.

In his FFA feature, Thomas shared how his experiences as a Missouri FFA member taught him practical skills like tracking profit-and-loss statements, selling corn to fund his first trip to Washington, and working collaboratively to achieve shared goals. Those early experiences, he says, laid the foundation for how he approaches leadership and growth today.

Here are five key lessons Thomas shared with FFA that still guide his approach to business and life:

• Take risks. Don’t let fear hold you back. “Even if things don’t go as planned,” Thomas says, “we don’t hold that against anyone.”
• Think differently. Innovation isn’t just about big new ideas. Sometimes it’s about making what already works even better.
• Embrace technology. Every field today depends on it. “Companies of tomorrow need people who understand how to use these tools well.”
• Be creative. “Creativity is about building a mirror so people can see themselves in the brand or mission you’re creating.”
• Learn by doing. Teamwork and hands-on experience are some of the most valuable skills you can bring to your career.

From selling corn in Missouri to leading client partnerships that help communities grow nationwide, Thomas’s story shows how optimism, creativity, and collaboration can plant the seeds for lifelong growth.

We’re proud at Social Driver to see Thomas honored by FFA for the same qualities that guide our team: optimism, creativity, and a commitment to helping others grow. His journey reminds us that the roots of leadership often start with curiosity and care for community.

Read the full article on FFA.org →

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