BAKERSFIELD, CA - Every day has been a learning experience since I have joined this industry. Through talking with the stellar individuals that make up the business, I find myself more and more impressed by the camaraderie and positivity that runs rampant through the world of produce. The latest I virtually met with was Gina Pettit, Director of Sales and Marketing for Country Sweet Produce's Bako Sweet®. Gina shared with me her enthusiasm for the industry and what she values about events like the fast-approaching Women's Fresh Perspectives Conference (WFPC).

“I love the energy,” Gina commented. “Produce is a dynamic, fast-paced industry. No two days are ever the same and each day presents a new opportunity to think outside the box and challenge yourself.”

Gina got started in the sales department at Grimmway Farms before joining Bako in February 2017, and with nearly seven years in the industry under her belt, she definitely qualifies as a produce all-star.

“Gina is such a tremendous rising star in the industry. She really works tirelessly—and that includes being a mom, a wife, and leading the Sales department here at CSP. Her passion and drive for greatness are the things that I’m most grateful for—and what the team gleans from her each day,” Michael Valpredo, Country Sweet's President, shared.

I think we’re all guilty of sometimes focusing so hard on work that we forget about our personal lives. This is just one issue that will be addressed at WFPC because, as Gina tells me, women in the industry face a juggling act of being successful, hard-workers, while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The remedy for this dichotomy, according to Gina, is to build a network of support.

“We need to empower each other to be the best we can at both work and home-life and highlight the moments when we are successful to give the self-confidence to continue making positive strides in the industry,” she said.

While Gina’s time in the industry has been full of rewarding moments, there is one that stands out above the rest.

“My proudest moment in my career to date is becoming the Director of Sales and Marketing at Country Sweet Produce. To have someone trust you with their success and believe in you to make their vision and dream for their company come to life, is an absolute honor,” Gina concluded.

Keep reading AndNowUKnow for more exclusive interviews with just a few of the many remarkable women in the produce industry.

Country Sweet Produce