CARLSBAD, CA - The most valuable components are often difficult to quantify. International Fresh Produce Association’s Women's Fresh Perspectives Conference (WFPC), for example, is one of the events where a lot of work is talked about, but not a lot of business. Conversations cultivate support and solutions beyond the tasks of purchase orders or ad deals.

“Being a woman in the produce industry undoubtedly comes with its challenges, but when we support and uplift one another, the sky is the limit. Events like WFPC are so important because they create a safe space where we can learn, grow, and encourage one another to reach new heights. By fostering mentorship, building strong networks, and advocating for one another, we not only strengthen our own careers, but also pave the way for future female leaders in the industry. Together, we have the power to drive meaningful change and create more opportunities for women to thrive,” Danielle Hudgick recently shared with me.

Danielle has been in the produce industry for 19 years, exclusively on the retail side of natural and organic specialty chains such as Sunflower Farmers Market, Fresh Thyme Market, and Sprouts. We haven’t gotten to meet in person, and I look forward to changing that in Carlsbad, California, the week of April 13.

“I spent the majority of my career as a produce buyer, where I had the opportunity to build lasting connections and cultivate relationships that I deeply value. In my current role as Senior Category Manager at Sprouts, I work with a fantastic team to develop strategies that drive growth, support our supplier partnerships, and bring the freshest, most flavorful produce to our customers,” she explained.

Further deepening her capabilities in this role, Danielle has had the opportunity to attend events like WFPC and shape a unique perspective on its role in cultivating female industry members.

“Events like the Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference are incredibly valuable. Businesses that invest in sending their female colleagues to this event are not only supporting individual development but also strengthening their teams and the industry as a whole by empowering future leaders,” she said. “My biggest takeaway after attending this event for the past two years is the confidence and empowerment it has given me. Being surrounded by strong, inspirational women in the industry creates an environment where we can openly share challenges, celebrate successes, and learn from one another. Each time I attend, I walk away feeling energized and inspired to bring that same energy back to my team and continue to grow both personally and professionally.”

As her third WFPC approached, Danielle said she is looking forward to the incredible energy the event brings.

“It’s always an inspiring experience to connect with other women in the industry, exchange ideas and challenges, and build new relationships that continue beyond the event. The speakers are always outstanding, offering fresh insights and perspectives that challenge me to think differently and grow as a leader. I know I’ll leave feeling motivated, recharged, and ready to bring new ideas and confidence back to my work,” she reflected.

Here is to an opportunity that replenishes our wells of support and inspiration. In the fast-paced, high-energy industry that is produce, such an event is one I, like Danielle, am eager to return to!