On Nov. 19, Brentsville District High School FBLA in Virginia took a field trip to the FBLA-PBL National Center and the Microsoft Technology Center in Reston, Virginia. The national center was a great opportunity to explore the many unique aspects of the building, including donations from many states and chapters as well as valuable collections which have been given to FBLA-PBL. National staff members Brian Ferrell and Lisa Smothers guided the 50 students around the building and introduced the hard working members of the national center. From the workers in the mail and copy room, to the CEO’s office, the students realized that everyone plays an important role in the FBLA world. Members were very excited to meet the president and CEO of the organization, Jean Buckley, as she gave a warm welcome into the office. The visit was a great way to allow students to see how the people at the FBLA-PBL National Center work together to accomplish tasks promptly and successfully.

The second stop during our day was the Microsoft Technology Center. This incredible building houses some of the many technology designers that keep the business world going each and everyday. Susie Adams, a senior technology specialist who has over 15 years of experience in the technology world, led members through the facility and enlightened them on how technology has expanded the business world and what to expect in the near future. Students were flabbergasted when the Microsoft team demonstrated some of the new products and introduced the new and improved technology that is on the horizon. The day was completed with pizza, a Microsoft book bag filled with “goodies,” door prizes, and a chance to try out the newest edition of X Box.

The trip played a significant role in allowing the participating students to see how the FBLA-PBL world works from day to day, as well as how technology is improving and changing many aspects in the business world.