WENATCHEE, WA - Apple industry leaders in Washington have spoken, and they have selected Stemilt President and Chief Executive Officer West Mathison to receive this year’s Apple Citizen of the Year Award. The honor was presented by the Washington State Apple Blossom Festival on February 10, 2024, and recognizes the leader for his contributions to the improvement of the Washington State treefruit industry.

“Thank you for this award and all the kind words,” said Mathison. “For me, it’s really about celebrating the legacy of my grandfather, Tom. He and my grandmother packed a few hundred boxes of cherries on Stemilt Hill years ago, and this year, we’ll have over 20 million boxes of fruit all over the world. It’s really a testament to this community to support not only Stemilt, but other leaders and growers of the fruit industry.”

Throughout Mathison’s 19-year tenure, Stemilt has grown its apple, pear, cherry, and organic treefruit footprint, a release explained. The company has also solidified its position as a treefruit leader that is focused on its people, consumers, and quality.

As Stemilt enters its 60^th year in business, during Mathison’s time heading the company, some milestones that have occurred include the construction of commercial buildings, such as the Olds Station area of Wenatchee, Stemilt’s headquarters, Fresh Cube Distribution Center, and a soon-to-open pear packing facility.

“Without a doubt, we’re so blessed with amazing people at Stemilt and the industry who work hard to pick our crops diligently for quality, keeping Wenatchee a competitive place where we can grow fruit,” added Mathison in his acceptance speech. “I’m thankful for all the great leaders, and congratulations to all the families here tonight. It’s truly an honor and a blessing to receive such an award, and I look to my family and Stemilt to thank. I’m grateful we’re able to continue on a legacy of innovation and freshness as Stemilt celebrates 60 years of World Famous Fruit.”

Under Mathison’s leadership, long-term marketing partnerships with Douglas Fruit and Hansen Fruit have helped Stemilt grow its position in apples, pears, and organics.

Congratulations to West Mathison!