What is the International Junior Auctioneer Championship?
The International Junior Auctioneer Championship (IJAC) is an opportunity for FFA members—and all youth—to demonstrate their selling prowess and expertise in the art of auctioneering. Hosted annually by the National Auction Association (NAA) during the NAA Conference & Show, IJAC showcases the emerging talent of young auctioneers between the ages of 12 and 18.
What is Auctioneering?
Auctioneering is the dynamic art of conducting sales where a trained professional—the auctioneer—uses rapid-fire communication skills, strategic pricing techniques, and audience engagement to sell goods, livestock, real estate, equipment, and more. Auctioneers are essential professionals in agriculture, serving as the voice of commerce at livestock sales, farm equipment auctions, land transactions, and agricultural commodity markets. The skills developed through auctioneering—public speaking, quick thinking, negotiation, and salesmanship—are valuable across all career paths.
About the Competition
IJAC participants compete in a professional setting, delivering auction chants (the rhythmic, fast-paced selling style unique to auctioneering), demonstrating product knowledge, and engaging audiences just as professional auctioneers do in real-world settings. These young professionals represent the future of the auction industry, demonstrating remarkable skill, confidence, and passion at an early age.
Launched in 2007, the first IJAC Champion was Trev Moravec of David City, NE. Winning the IJAC title is a prestigious milestone that highlights participants' potential as the next leaders in auctioneering.
About the National Auction Association
As a membership-based association, the National Auction Association (NAA) supports professionals across a wide range of auction specialties. Through industry-leading education, resources, and a strong professional network, the NAA helps members grow their businesses and elevate the industry. All members adhere to a strict Code of Ethics, promoting integrity and professionalism throughout the auction community.
National FFA Endorsed Activity
The National FFA Organization continually revises National FFA Events to ensure they remain relevant to the industry, FFA members and the agricultural education classroom. In its effort to modernize and increase the number of quality experiences for FFA members, National FFA has created a new model to recognize endorsed activities with other organizations. The International Junior Auctioneer Championship is endorsed by National FFA, and open to FFA members. FFA participants will receive FFA-specific recognition at the championship.
Participants are not required to qualify at the local or state level to participate in IJAC. All FFA members ages 12-18 are welcome to compete.
Important Dates
Click above to learn about how to participate in this year's competition.
Competition Information
What to Expect:
- Professional auction environment at the NAA Conference & Show
- Opportunities to network with industry professionals
- Access to educational sessions and trade show
- Development of communication, leadership, and business skills
- Real-world application of agricultural marketing knowledge
Resources
- IJAC Competition Eligibility and Entry Requirements
- Previous Competition Videos
- Travel and Lodging Information
Questions? Contact: info@auctioneers.org
Why Participate in IJAC?
✓ Develop powerful communication and public speaking skills
✓ Gain confidence performing in front of audiences
✓ Learn professional sales and marketing techniques
✓ Network with auction industry leaders
✓ Explore career opportunities in agricultural marketing and sales
✓ Receive FFA-specific recognition for your achievements
✓ Build your resume with a nationally-recognized competition