FOLSOM, CA - Are you an up-and-coming leader in the blueberry industry? If so, the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) has just the program for you. Recently, the organization launched the application process for the second class of its Blueberry Leadership Program, which will accept up to 10 talented, passionate professionals from across the supply chain to become fellows in the program.

“Our vision for this next year of the Blueberry Industry Leadership Program is to continue to engage rising leaders in the blueberry industry and equip them with the tools they need to take an active role in working toward USHBC’s bold goal of making blueberries the world’s favorite fruit,” said Amanda Griffin, USHBC Vice President of Engagement and Education, and lead facilitator of the program. “As we embark on our second year of the program, we are reminded that the people who are blueberry industry leaders today got where they are through learning, collaboration, and a drive to grow and innovate. We look forward to seeing how the next class embraces the program as it opens doors and bridges connections for their future.”

The USHBC training is designed to help fellows develop and grow their leadership skill set while learning from industry veterans, according to a release. They will also get the opportunity to expand their network of connections.

Class 2 of the leadership program will get underway in September at the Blueberry Summit in Savannah, Georgia, and will continue through 2024. The program will take an interactive approach to leadership development through hands-on training, immersive learning experiences, engagement with key industry players, and exposure to many components of the produce supply chain.

Fellows will participate both virtually and in person, traveling four times over the course of the curriculum between September 2023 and September 2024, with a graduation ceremony taking place at the 2024 Blueberry Summit. To offset expenses and materials costs, fellows will be required to pay a $2,500 fee.

USHBC is seeking applicants who are up-and-coming leaders, hold a mid-level management position, and have a minimum of five years of experience in agriculture, with preference given to those who have worked in the blueberry industry. Potential fellows can click here to apply to the program.

The deadline to apply is June 16, 2023.

For more leadership opportunities and resources, keep a tab open for ANUK.

U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council