Leaders from Longo’s, Taylor Farms, and More Welcomed to Produce Industry Leadership Program Class 29; Nikki Wootten Details
WASHINGTON, DC - Industry friends, say hello to the incoming class of the Produce Industry Leadership Program. The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) has unveiled the participants in Class 29 of the Leadership Program, sponsored by Corteva Agriscience™.
“Class 29 features a diverse group of emerging leaders who are poised to make a significant impact,” said Nikki Wootten, Education and Program Manager, Talent, IFPA. “The upcoming year promises a dynamic leadership experience that will empower these professionals to shape the future of our industry.”
A press release explained that participants will attend several of IFPA's signature and industry events and immerse themselves in face-to-face meetings and hands-on training with top industry experts and educators through a series of customized trips. Beginning November 2024, Class 29 will participate in several educational events centered on the four core focus areas of the program. These include leadership development, business relationships, government and public affairs, and media and public communications.
The incoming Leadership Program includes the following fresh produce experts:
- Michelle Alo, Vice President of Marketing, Kings River Packing
- Daniel Baldin, Senior Category Manager Produce and Floral, Longo Brothers Fruit Market
- Matthew Collins, Purchasing Director, Markon Cooperative
- Marissa Dake, Vice President of Marketing and Partnerships, DNO Produce
- Amber Gray, Account Manager, Wild Hive
- Justin Guibert, Sales and Purchasing Manager, Christopher Ranch
- Joel Hewitt, Vice President of Sales, CMI Orchards
- Bianca Kaprielian, CEO and President, Fruit World
- Joseph Klick, Director, Produce Management, Naturipe Farms
- Wyatt Maysey, Director of Sustainability, Taylor Farms
- Megan McKenna, Senior Director of Marketing and Foodservice, National Watermelon Promotion Board
- Stephanie Tramutola, Marketing Director, Office Manager, Accounts Payable Manager, A&J Produce Corp.
The Produce Industry Leadership Program was launched in 1995 and has graduated more than 330 program participants. As it enters its 29th year, the program continues to provide a year-long leadership journey, helping participants develop career-long connections and deepen their understanding of the industry.
Congrats to this year’s class!
