WARRENVILLE, Ill. (February 20, 2002) - Teaching young men and women how the right vehicle can support a successful agricultural operation is the mission of International Truck and Engine Corporation and its sponsorship of the Future Farmers of America (FFA).

Recognizing that tomorrow's leading engineers and agriculturists are today's FFA members, International, manufacturer of the Power Stroke® Diesel engine for Ford Motor Company, supports the FFA in three areas: a college scholarship program, the National FFA Convention and a joint sponsorship of the National Leadership Conference for State Officers. The company's involvement with these programs offers career path opportunities to aspiring agribusiness leaders and engineers, and teaches the bottom line value of diesel power over gasoline in commercial operations.

"This sponsorship supports our relationship with Ford and helps us reach out to future business leaders. Through the FFA, we are able to communicate the power, fuel economy and overall life-cycle value diesel engines like the Power Stroke Diesel provide," said Bob Brandt, Ford national account manager, engine group sales and marketing, International Truck and Engine Corporation. "Our common goals for excellence make the sponsorship a natural fit. We have been tremendously impressed with the quality of individuals in the FFA, as well as the organization as a whole."